Understanding how Alzheimer's disease affects memory storage in the brain
The impact of Alzheimer's disease on novel genetic signatures of hippocampal memory traces
This study is looking at how brain cells that help us remember things change as we get older and as Alzheimer's disease progresses, using mice to find clues that could lead to new ways to help improve memory for people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10997953 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular changes in brain cells that are responsible for storing memories in the context of Alzheimer's disease. Using a mouse model, the study focuses on identifying unique genetic signatures in memory-related brain cells, known as engram cells, and how these signatures change with age and the progression of Alzheimer's. Advanced techniques like single-nuclear RNA sequencing will be employed to analyze the gene expression in these cells, aiming to uncover the underlying mechanisms of memory impairment associated with Alzheimer's. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving memory function in affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing age-related cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with non-age-related memory impairments or those without cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing memory function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding memory mechanisms in Alzheimer's models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bulthuis, Nicholas Edward — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Bulthuis, Nicholas Edward
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.