Investigating how brain changes affect memory in Alzheimer's disease
Extracellular matrix and memory impairments in Alzheimer disease
This study is looking at how changes in certain brain structures might affect memory problems in people with Alzheimer's disease, using mice to help understand why it's harder to recognize familiar faces.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11095864 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between the extracellular matrix and memory impairments in Alzheimer's disease (AD). It examines how specific brain structures, particularly in the hippocampus, are affected by amyloid and tau proteins, which are known to disrupt memory function. By studying mouse models of AD, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind social recognition memory loss, which is crucial for recognizing familiar individuals. The approach involves analyzing the degradation of specialized structures called perineuronal nets that support memory-related neurons.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing memory impairments related to dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with memory impairments due to causes other than Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to improve memory function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the extracellular matrix in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sontheimer, Harald W — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Sontheimer, Harald W
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 below.