Understanding brain circuits involved in thinking for patients with frontotemporal dementia

Histopathologic interrogation of laminar microcircuits underlying cognition in frontotemporal dementia

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11013916

This study is looking at how frontotemporal dementia affects the brain to help find better ways to diagnose and treat the condition, so people with FTD can get the support they need.

Quick facts

Grant typeCareer grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11013916 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the specific brain circuits that are affected in patients with frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a condition that leads to difficulties in social cognition, language, and executive function. By examining the loss of certain neurons and the pathways they connect, the study aims to develop better diagnostic tools and potential treatments for FTD. The research utilizes advanced techniques to analyze brain tissue from patients, focusing on the unique patterns of neuron degeneration associated with different types of FTD. This approach may help clarify the relationship between brain structure and cognitive function in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia or those exhibiting symptoms related to cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or cognitive impairment unrelated to frontotemporal dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods and targeted therapies for patients with frontotemporal dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain pathology in dementia, but this specific approach focusing on laminar microcircuits in FTD is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.