Understanding how brain circuits change during learning
Official title: Unraveling the synaptic and circuit mechanisms underlying a plasticity-driving instructive signal
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-10686592 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our brains learn and remember things by seeing how experiences change the connections between brain cells, and it could help people with memory issues, like those with Alzheimer's, by finding ways to improve how we learn and remember.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | August 21, 2023 |
| Project end | August 20, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,415,167 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2MH136393-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10686592 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to the mechanisms being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms in the brain that allow for learning and memory by focusing on how neural connections change in response to experiences. It explores a novel learning rule called behavioral timescale synaptic plasticity (BTSP), which suggests that a single experience can lead to significant changes in brain activity. By studying these processes, the research aims to uncover how memories are formed and modified over time, which could have implications for understanding conditions like Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how learning and memory functions can be preserved or enhanced.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving memory and cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding synaptic plasticity and its role in learning, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grienberger, Christine — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Grienberger, Christine
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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.