Investigating how the SMAD3 gene affects brain activity related to memory.
Official title: The role of SMAD3 in gene networks underlying human brain activity
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11052450 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene called SMAD3 affects brain activity related to memory in people with epilepsy, and it hopes to help us understand more about memory problems in conditions like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | January 5, 2024 |
| Project end | September 4, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $40,485 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS132443-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052450 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with epilepsy who are experiencing cognitive dysfunction or memory issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cognitive impairments or those not diagnosed with epilepsy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the SMAD3 gene in regulating brain activity associated with memory, particularly in patients with epilepsy. By analyzing gene expression data alongside brain oscillation patterns, the study aims to uncover how SMAD3 influences cognitive processes. The researchers are using advanced techniques to identify the connections between SMAD3 and other genes that may impact memory and cognitive function. This could lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying cognitive diseases like Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for improving memory and cognitive function in patients with neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gene networks related to brain activity, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Moore, Haley D — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Moore, Haley D
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Developing targeted therapies for Ewing sarcoma
This study is working on new treatments for Ewing sarcoma, a cancer that mainly affects kids and teens, by finding ways to target a specific protein that helps the cancer grow, so that we can offer safer and better options for those fighting this disease.
-
Neural roots of how autistic adults understand word meaning
A study to understand how adults with autism process word meanings in the brain, aiming to improve language support.
-
A new approach to healing NF1-related tibia fractures in children
This grant aims to understand why some NF1-related leg fractures in kids don’t heal well and to develop better treatments to help them recover without complications.
-
Multi-center study on how ventilation during CPR relates to cardiac arrest outcomes
A large, real-world study will look at how ventilation during CPR affects survival after out-of-hospital cardiac arrest in adults.
-
National Spina Bifida Patient Registry across the U.S.
A national registry collects health information from people with spina bifida to help doctors and families get better, more consistent care.
-
MONA-LISA: Understanding Why Autoimmune Signals Turn into Lupus Over Time
A study using data and samples from people with early autoimmune signs to understand why some develop full-blown lupus and others do not.
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.