Investigating how vitamin A can help improve memory and learning in aging and Alzheimer's disease.
The hippocampal dentate gyrus in aging and Alzheimer's disease: boosting transcription of retinoic acid-sensitive genes through vitamin A supplementation and HDAC inhibition
This study is looking at how vitamin A and certain natural compounds might help improve memory and learning in older adults and people with Alzheimer's by boosting important brain functions that can be weakened by aging and stress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas Tech University Health Scis Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lubbock, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11076699 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the hippocampal dentate gyrus, a brain region crucial for learning and memory, which is affected by aging and Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand how vitamin A supplementation and the inhibition of certain enzymes can boost the expression of genes that are sensitive to retinoic acid, potentially reversing cognitive decline. By examining the effects of oxidative stress and the role of dietary antioxidants, the research seeks to uncover new therapeutic strategies for improving cognitive function in older adults and those with Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing cognitive decline or individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive impairments not related to aging or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance memory and cognitive function in aging individuals and those suffering from Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been clinical trials involving antioxidants, this specific approach focusing on vitamin A and its effects on gene expression in the context of aging and Alzheimer's is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Lubbock, United States
- Texas Tech University Health Scis Center — Lubbock, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lawrence, John Joshua — Texas Tech University Health Scis Center
- Study coordinator: Lawrence, John Joshua
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.