Measuring brain cell growth in living humans using advanced imaging techniques
Using MR Spectroscopy to Measure Mammalian Neurogenesis in Vivo
This study is looking at how new brain cells grow in adults, especially in a part of the brain important for learning and memory, using a special imaging technique to see how this process changes as we age or in conditions like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding better ways to understand brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052647 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how new brain cells are formed in adults, particularly in the hippocampus, which is crucial for learning and memory. By using a non-invasive imaging technique called magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS), the study aims to measure the rates of neurogenesis in living humans, providing insights into how this process may decline with age or in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The goal is to develop a reliable method to observe neurogenesis in real-time, which could enhance our understanding of brain health and disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over the age of 21 who are interested in understanding brain health, particularly those concerned about aging or Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with acute neurological conditions or those who are unable to undergo MRI scans may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new ways to monitor and potentially improve brain health in aging individuals and those with neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using imaging techniques to study neurogenesis in animal models, but this approach in humans is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maletic-Savatic, Mirjana — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Maletic-Savatic, Mirjana
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.