Understanding Brain Changes from Early Life Experiences
Microglial TREM2 Mediates Hippocampal Synaptic and Cognitive Sequela of Early Deprivation and Enrichment
This project explores how early childhood experiences, like neglect, affect brain development and memory by looking at specific brain cells in an animal model.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11194339 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Early childhood experiences, especially neglect, can significantly impact how a child's brain develops, leading to challenges with memory and behavior. This project uses a special mouse model that shows similar brain and behavioral changes to children who have experienced early neglect. We believe that a specific brain cell receptor, called TREM2, on immune cells in the brain (microglia) might be key to these changes. Our goal is to see if boosting TREM2 can help correct the brain and memory problems caused by early deprivation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational animal model work is for future patients, specifically children who have experienced early life neglect and its associated cognitive and behavioral challenges.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by early childhood neglect or related cognitive deficits would not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to help children recover from the effects of early neglect on their brain development and memory.
How similar studies have performed: While previous animal models have struggled to fully capture the effects of early neglect, this project uses a novel mouse model that successfully mimics key features, and the role of TREM2 in this context is a new area of focus.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kaffman, Arie — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Kaffman, Arie
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.