Investigating how cholecystokinin affects memory-related brain cells in Alzheimer's disease

Role of Cholecystokinin in the Dentate Gyrus

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11124595

This study is looking at how a brain chemical called cholecystokinin (CCK) affects the growth of new brain cells and memory, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, to find ways to help improve brain health and memory.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11124595 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of cholecystokinin (CCK) in the dentate gyrus of the brain, particularly in relation to adult neurogenesis and memory function. By studying both healthy and Alzheimer's disease models, the research aims to identify how CCK influences the environment that supports the growth of new brain cells. The approach involves stimulating specific brain cells to see if increasing CCK levels can enhance the proliferation of neural stem cells and improve memory-related functions. This could lead to new strategies for promoting brain repair in individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or neurological conditions unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that enhance memory and cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding neurogenesis and memory function, but the specific role of CCK in this context is still being explored, making this research both relevant and novel.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.