New hippocampal neurons that support social memory
Hippocampal adult-born neurons in social memory circuits
This project looks at how new brain cells made in the hippocampus help people recognize and remember others, with relevance for conditions like Alzheimer's and autism.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11312639 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the research explores how the adult brain makes new neurons in the hippocampus and how those cells help us remember people and form social bonds. The team will map connections between adult-born neurons and a hippocampal subregion called CA2 and test how removing or stimulating these cells changes social memory. Most experiments use laboratory models to trace circuits and cellular links that underlie social memory. The results are intended to guide future approaches that could target these neurons to improve social functioning.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with social memory difficulties related to Alzheimer's disease, autism spectrum disorder, or other neuropsychiatric conditions who are willing to contribute to research or donate samples.
Not a fit: People without social memory problems, children, or anyone seeking an immediate clinical therapy are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic-science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to boost social memory and help people with Alzheimer's or other disorders reconnect with family and friends.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies, including the investigators' prior work, show adult-born neurons affect social memory, but translating these findings into human treatments has not yet been achieved.
Where this research is happening
Charlottesville, United States
- University of Virginia — Charlottesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cope, Elise C — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Cope, Elise C
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.