Pathway-Specific Vulnerability of Dopamine-Glutamate Neurons in Aging and Memory
Funded at Advanced Science Research Center · NIH-11434782 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Aging may weaken specific dopamine- glutamate brain cells, which could help explain memory and motivation changes as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Advanced Science Research Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | May 31, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $397,689 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG103127-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11434782 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates would be older adults (or data from aging models) whose memory or motivation changes may relate to DA-GLU pathway function.
✕Less likely to help
This research is focused on aging brain circuits and may not directly benefit individuals without aging-related cognitive concerns.
What this research studies
This project looks at particular dopamine neurons that also release glutamate and how they age. Researchers will use advanced viral methods to label different subgroups of these neurons and map where they connect in the brain. They will study how aging affects chemical signals in these pathways and how that relates to memory and motivation changes over time. The aim is to link circuit-specific deterioration to age-related cognitive decline and identify potential targets for future interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could reveal which brain pathways are most vulnerable with age and guide new approaches to preserving memory and motivation in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown age-related changes in dopamine systems, but this project aims to pinpoint specific neuron subpopulations and pathways, a relatively novel focus.
Where this research is happening
-
Advanced Science Research Center
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Passos Mingote, Susana — Advanced Science Research Center
- Study coordinator: Passos Mingote, Susana
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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.