NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating how a specific protein affects memory and learning in the brain

Official title: Role of PSD-95-linked PDE4A5 in Regulation of AMPA Receptors

Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-10928802 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called PDE4A5 helps control another protein that affects memory and learning, especially when people are sleep-deprived, to better understand how our brains work.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project startSeptember 15, 2023
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$42,826
NIH project number5F99NS135807-02
Project IDNIH-10928802 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive deficits, particularly those related to memory and learning.

Less likely to help

Patients with cognitive impairments not related to AMPA receptor function or those without any cognitive deficits may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called PDE4A5 in regulating AMPA receptors, which are crucial for synaptic plasticity and memory. By examining how PDE4A5 interacts with another protein, PSD-95, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that influence the trafficking of AMPA receptors to the synapse, thereby affecting learning and memory processes. The study employs advanced imaging techniques to visualize these interactions and their effects on brain function, particularly in the context of cognitive deficits caused by conditions like sleep deprivation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for cognitive deficits associated with brain disorders.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar pathways for cognitive enhancement, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of California at Davis
    Davis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Estrada-Tobar, Zoila Maribel — University of California at Davis
  • Study coordinator: Estrada-Tobar, Zoila Maribel

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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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.