Molecules in the brain that help short-term (working) memory
Chronic and acute molecular programs enabling working memory
Researchers are exploring how a brain molecule called GPR12 helps short-term (working) memory, aiming to help people with ADHD and related memory problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11353911 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
They will use animal models and advanced brain imaging to see how GPR12 affects communication between the thalamus and prefrontal cortex during working-memory tasks. The team will map steady-state gene activity and rapid, activity-dependent signaling tied to seconds-long memory processes using two-photon imaging, genetics, and molecular profiling. By linking molecular programs to specific patterns of neural activity during behavior, they hope to reveal mechanisms that keep short-term memory online. Results are intended to point to molecular targets that could be tested for therapies to improve working memory.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Although this is preclinical work that does not enroll people now, the findings would most directly apply to people with ADHD, schizophrenia, or other disorders causing working-memory problems and could make them candidates for future trials.
Not a fit: People whose memory problems are due to non-neurological causes (such as medication side effects or sleep loss) or advanced neurodegenerative disease may be less likely to benefit from this molecular approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could identify new molecular targets for drugs or other therapies to improve working memory in ADHD, schizophrenia, and related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Prior human and animal studies support roles for the prefrontal cortex and thalamus in working memory, but targeting the GPR12 molecular pathway is a novel and largely untested strategy.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Rockefeller University — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rajasethupathy, Priya — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Rajasethupathy, Priya
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.