Investigating a new approach to improve cognition in mental health disorders

Development of in vivo probes to study the function of TRIP8b in cognition

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10665810

This study is looking at how a protein called TRIP8b affects thinking and memory in people dealing with stress-related mental health issues, like depression, and aims to find new treatments that could help improve brain function without causing heart problems.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVANDERBILT UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10665810 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, TRIP8b, affects cognitive function in individuals suffering from neuropsychiatric diseases, particularly those related to chronic stress. The researchers aim to develop small molecules that can disrupt the interaction between TRIP8b and HCN channels in the brain, which may help alleviate cognitive impairments associated with conditions like Major Depressive Disorder. By using advanced screening techniques, they have already identified promising candidates that could lead to new treatment options for patients experiencing cognitive dysfunction. The ultimate goal is to provide a safer and more effective way to enhance cognitive function without the cardiac side effects typically associated with similar treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neuropsychiatric conditions that involve cognitive dysfunction, such as Major Depressive Disorder.

Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments not related to neuropsychiatric disorders may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve cognitive function in patients with mental health disorders.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar molecular pathways for cognitive enhancement, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

NASHVILLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Mental disorders, Mental health disorders, Psychiatric Disease, Psychiatric Disorder, psychological disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.