Understanding Brain Signals in Schizophrenia
Official title: Distinct NMDA receptor signaling domains regulate hippocampal network dynamics
Funded at George Mason University · NIH-11145190 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project aims to understand how specific brain signals in a part of the brain called the hippocampus contribute to symptoms of schizophrenia, especially memory problems.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | George Mason University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fairfax, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $191,448 |
| NIH project number | 5R21MH135232-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11145190 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
This foundational research is focused on understanding the brain mechanisms underlying schizophrenia, particularly in individuals who experience symptoms in late adolescence to early adulthood.
✕Less likely to help
Patients will not directly participate in this basic science project, so there is no immediate direct benefit for individuals.
What this research studies
Our brains use special signals, like those from NMDA receptors, to help us think and remember. In people with schizophrenia, these signals don't always work correctly, especially in the hippocampus, a brain area important for memory. This project explores how different parts of these NMDA receptor signals affect brain activity and memory. By understanding these detailed brain processes, we hope to uncover new ways to help people experiencing schizophrenia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of schizophrenia, potentially paving the way for new treatments that target specific brain signaling pathways to improve cognitive symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have implicated NMDA receptor dysfunction in schizophrenia, and this project builds upon that knowledge by exploring the specific roles of different signaling components.
Where this research is happening
-
George Mason University
Fairfax, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dumas, Theodore C — George Mason University
- Study coordinator: Dumas, Theodore C
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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.