Investigating how the brain encodes memories in mice
Official title: Exploring synaptic encoding of circuit-specific memory in behaving mice
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10997382 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains store and recall memories by watching tiny changes in brain connections while mice do different activities, helping us understand how we learn and remember things better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | December 8, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $562,231 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134842-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997382 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other neurological conditions unrelated to synaptic plasticity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the mechanisms of memory storage and retrieval in the brain by examining synaptic plasticity, which is the ability of synapses to strengthen or weaken over time. Using advanced techniques like two-photon microscopy, researchers will visualize changes in synaptic connections in real time as mice engage in various behaviors. The study aims to uncover how specific synaptic changes contribute to long-term memory formation, providing insights into the underlying processes of learning and cognition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing memory and cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic plasticity and its role in memory, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huganir, Richard L — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Huganir, Richard L
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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.