Investigating how sex affects memory problems related to Alzheimer's disease.
The role of sex in GABAergic-mediated, Alzheimer’s disease-related episodic memory impairments from mid to late life
This study is looking at how being male or female affects memory problems in people at risk for Alzheimer's disease, especially by checking how a brain chemical called GABA influences memory and brain activity in middle-aged and older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10881999 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of sex on memory impairments associated with Alzheimer's disease (AD), particularly focusing on the role of GABA, a neurotransmitter crucial for memory function. By utilizing advanced brain imaging and hormone assays, the study aims to understand how GABA levels in the hippocampus influence brain activity and episodic memory in middle-aged and older adults at risk for AD. The research specifically examines the differences in memory decline between men and women, considering factors like estrogen depletion and genetic risk factors such as apolipoprotein ε4.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are middle-aged and older adults, particularly women, who are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those with advanced stages of dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted interventions that improve memory function and quality of life for individuals at risk of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in understanding the role of GABA in memory function, but this specific approach focusing on sex differences in humans is novel.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Eich, Teal S — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Eich, Teal S
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.