Impact of anti-NMDAR1 autoantibodies on memory and brain health
Official title: Effects of Different Isotypes of Anti-NMDAR1 Autoantibodies on Cognitive Function and Neuroprotection
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11010747 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain antibodies in the blood might influence memory and brain health, especially in people who have different amounts of these antibodies, to see if higher levels can help improve thinking skills and protect against brain issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | January 15, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $453,477 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135620-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010747 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with varying levels of anti-NMDAR1 autoantibodies, particularly those experiencing cognitive impairments or neurological symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any detectable levels of anti-NMDAR1 autoantibodies or those with conditions unrelated to cognitive function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how different types of anti-NMDAR1 autoantibodies in the blood affect cognitive functions and neuroprotection. It focuses on understanding the relationship between these autoantibodies and memory performance, particularly in individuals with varying levels of these antibodies. By analyzing plasma samples from participants, the study aims to determine if higher levels of certain autoantibodies can enhance cognitive abilities and protect against neurological symptoms. The research employs a combination of cognitive testing and immunological assays to explore these connections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into how autoantibodies can be harnessed to improve cognitive function and protect against neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that autoantibodies can influence cognitive functions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights, although the specific focus on anti-NMDAR1 autoantibodies is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhou, Xianjin — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Zhou, Xianjin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.