Understanding how aging affects memory and familiarity in older adults

Dopaminergic Mechanism for Familiarity and Memory Interference

['FUNDING_R21'] · ADVANCED SCIENCE RESEARCH CENTER · NIH-10989092

This study looks at how changes in the brain as we age can affect memory and our ability to tell old memories from new ones, focusing on older adults and how certain brain areas might make it harder to learn new things when we have lots of memories already.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorADVANCED SCIENCE RESEARCH CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10989092 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how age-related changes in the brain, specifically in dopamine neurons, affect memory and the ability to distinguish between familiar and new information in older adults. The study focuses on the role of the lateral entorhinal cortex (LEC) and how its dysfunction may lead to increased memory interference, where established memories disrupt the learning of new information. By examining these neural circuits in older mice, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind cognitive decline and memory issues associated with aging.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and above who may be experiencing cognitive decline or memory impairment.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving memory function and cognitive health in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of dopamine in memory processing has shown promise, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.