Understanding how brain circuits support short-term memory
Official title: Microcircuit mechanisms behind the distributed cortical contributions to working memory
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11010958 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different parts of the brain help us remember things for a short time, using a fun virtual reality game for mice to see how their brains work during memory tasks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $553,788 |
| NIH project number | 1R01MH138285-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010958 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with autism spectrum disorder or related cognitive challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive impairments not related to working memory or autism spectrum disorder may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the neural mechanisms behind working memory, focusing on how different areas of the brain contribute to this cognitive ability. Using a novel virtual reality task designed for mice, researchers will explore how specific brain circuits are activated during short-term memory tasks. The study employs advanced techniques like 2-photon microscopy and calcium imaging to observe brain activity in real-time. By identifying the roles of various cell types in the brain, the research aims to clarify how these circuits work together to support memory functions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for cognitive disorders, including autism spectrum disorder.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain circuits related to memory, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pinto, Lucas — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pinto, Lucas
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
High-intensity exercise as a treatment for Parkinson's disease
This study is looking at whether doing high-intensity endurance exercise can help people who have just been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease feel better and slow down their symptoms, especially since current medications don't always do the trick.
-
Software to quickly assess organ dose after radionuclide exposure
This study is creating a helpful software tool that quickly calculates how much radiation your organs absorb after you've taken certain radioactive substances, so you can get better care and treatment based on your individual needs.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for better ways to improve your care and treatment, so you can get more personalized options that work best for you.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for new ways to improve care and treatment for patients, and if you join, you might help test some exciting new methods that could lead to better health for everyone.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for ways to improve care and treatment for patients like you, by trying out new methods that could help manage your health better.
-
Investigating core biological processes
This study is all about exploring important biological processes that affect our health, and it invites patients to help discover new ways to improve care for everyone.
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.