Investigating how the p53 protein affects learning and memory in the brain.
Official title: The tumor suppressor p53 in hippocampal plasticity and intellectual disability
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-11077881 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called p53 in a part of the brain important for learning and memory affects memory formation, and it aims to help us understand how problems with this protein might lead to intellectual disabilities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | April 23, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $198,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS135779-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11077881 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with intellectual disabilities or those at risk for such conditions due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without intellectual disabilities or those not affected by p53-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the p53 protein in the hippocampus, a brain region crucial for learning and memory. It examines how changes in p53 levels influence the process of long-term potentiation (LTP), which is essential for forming memories. By studying mouse models, the research aims to understand how dysregulation of p53 may contribute to intellectual disabilities. The approach includes manipulating p53 levels in neurons to observe effects on synaptic plasticity and behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for intellectual disabilities linked to p53 dysregulation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of transcription factors like p53 in brain function, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsai, Nien-Pei — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Tsai, Nien-Pei
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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.