Understanding how age affects brain function related to psychosis

Deciphering Dentate Gyrus Malfunction in Age-Dependent Hippocampal Hyperactivity: Implications for Psychogenesis

NIH-funded research Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-11057380

This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the dentate gyrus affects the development of psychosis, especially in young adults, to better understand how age changes might influence mental health and help find new treatment options.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUt Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Dallas, United States)
Project IDNIH-11057380 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the dentate gyrus, a part of the hippocampus, in the development of psychosis, particularly focusing on how age influences its function. By examining changes in brain cells associated with memory and behavior, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind psychosis, especially in young adults. The researchers will use advanced techniques to manipulate specific neurons in the dentate gyrus, potentially leading to new insights into how age-related changes contribute to mental health disorders. This work could help identify targets for future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include young adults and adolescents who may be experiencing symptoms of psychosis or have a family history of such conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with established psychotic disorders who are not within the age range of late adolescence to early adulthood may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals experiencing psychosis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain function related to psychosis, but this specific approach using chemogenetic techniques is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Dallas, 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 2026-06-15 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.