Investigating how a specific enzyme affects brain function and behavior in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: The role of beta-secretase 1 (BACE1) in modulating excitatory synaptic and circuit function and behavior
Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-11004678 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called BACE1 affects memory and brain function in mice with Alzheimer's, hoping to find new ways to help people with the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project start | February 22, 2023 |
| Project end | February 21, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AG081134-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004678 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who are at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of beta-secretase 1 (BACE1) in the brain, particularly how it influences neuronal and synaptic functions related to memory. By studying mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which BACE1 affects brain circuits and behavior. The approach involves detailed physiological assessments of neurons in the hippocampus, a critical area for memory, to determine how changes in BACE1 levels impact cognitive functions. This research seeks to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and potential clinical applications for Alzheimer's treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease that improve cognitive function and slow disease progression.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been challenges with BACE1 inhibitors in clinical trials, this research aims to provide new insights that could lead to successful interventions, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
Farmington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yao, Annie Y — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Yao, Annie Y
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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.