Investigating how a protein called Arc interacts with brain receptors involved in memory and learning.
Official title: Phosphorylation-mediated regulation of Arc interactions with the AMPA receptor endocytic machinery
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11072519 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called Arc that helps with learning and memory, to see how it works with brain receptors that are important for communication between brain cells, which could help us find new ways to treat conditions like Alzheimer's disease and substance abuse.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $328,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH139200-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072519 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with cognitive impairments, such as those with Alzheimer's disease or substance abuse disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to synaptic plasticity or cognitive function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the activity-regulated cytoskeletal-associated protein (Arc), which plays a crucial role in synaptic plasticity, impacting learning and memory. The study aims to understand how Arc interacts with the endocytic machinery of AMPA receptors, which are vital for synaptic function. By examining the phosphorylation of Arc and its effects on receptor internalization, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could influence conditions like Alzheimer's disease and substance abuse. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these interactions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cognitive disorders and substance abuse by enhancing our understanding of synaptic function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cobb, Melanie H. — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Cobb, Melanie H.
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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.