Investigating inhibitory neurons in the primate hippocampus
Official title: Primate inhibitory neurons in hippocampal CA3-CA1 intrinsic circuits
Funded at Boston University (Charles River Campus) · NIH-11064063 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain cells in the hippocampus that help with learning and memory, using primates to better understand how these cells might be connected to mental health issues like schizophrenia and PTSD.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University (Charles River Campus) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $687,829 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH136013-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11064063 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia or PTSD.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without psychiatric disorders or those not affected by hippocampal dysfunction may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of inhibitory neurons in the hippocampus, which is crucial for adaptive learning and memory. Using a primate animal model, the study aims to analyze the types and properties of these neurons, their connectivity, and how they may relate to psychiatric disorders such as schizophrenia and PTSD. The researchers will employ advanced techniques like unbiased stereology, in-vitro electrophysiology, and confocal imaging to gather detailed data on these neurons. This work seeks to fill the gap in knowledge that exists due to the lack of similar studies in primates compared to rodents.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for psychiatric disorders linked to hippocampal dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been extensive research on inhibitory neurons in rodents, this approach in primates is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University (Charles River Campus)
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barbas, Helen — Boston University (Charles River Campus)
- Study coordinator: Barbas, Helen
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.