Understanding how brain circuits influence navigation and memory in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Behavioral and circuit manipulations of directional tuning in Subiculum
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10988639 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain parts of the brain help us find our way and remember places, especially in people with Alzheimer's, to better understand how the disease affects memory and navigation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $446,627 |
| NIH project number | 1R21MH135321-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10988639 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive impairments not related to Alzheimer's disease may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific brain regions, particularly the subiculum, in how we navigate and remember our environment. By examining the neural activity and connections of these areas, the study aims to uncover how cognitive impairments in Alzheimer's disease affect spatial awareness and memory. The approach involves detailed analysis of neuron ensembles and their interactions, which could lead to insights into the underlying mechanisms of cognitive decline. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how these brain processes are disrupted in Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving navigation and memory in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to navigation and memory, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nitz, Douglas Arthur — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Nitz, Douglas Arthur
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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.