Improving cognitive function in psychotic disorders by targeting a specific protein
Official title: Targeting Arc to Improve Cognitive Deficits in Psychotic Disorders
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11134697 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Arc affects thinking problems in people with conditions like schizophrenia, and it aims to find new treatments that could help improve memory and cognitive skills for those who struggle with these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | July 8, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $701,254 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134923-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134697 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with schizophrenia or related psychotic disorders who experience cognitive deficits.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with psychotic disorders who do not exhibit cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the Arc protein complex in cognitive impairments associated with psychotic disorders like schizophrenia. By using advanced screening techniques on mouse neurons, the study aims to identify small molecules that can enhance the expression of Arc, which is believed to be crucial for cognitive function. One promising candidate, the atypical antipsychotic lurasidone, has shown potential in improving cognitive performance in clinical settings. The goal is to explore whether targeting Arc can lead to better treatment options for cognitive deficits in patients with these disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve cognitive function in individuals with psychotic disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that targeting similar pathways can lead to improvements in cognitive function, suggesting a promising avenue for this research.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karmacharya, Rakesh — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Karmacharya, Rakesh
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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.