Understanding how brain connections change to support learning and memory
Official title: Synaptic plasticity mechanisms that protect and refine local circuits
Funded at University of Texas at Austin · NIH-11126361 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how tiny parts of brain cells change when we learn new things, which could help us understand how our brains adapt and remember better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas at Austin NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Austin, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $466,757 |
| NIH project number | 1R56MH139176-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126361 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive disturbances or impairments, particularly those related to learning and memory.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive disturbances not related to synaptic function or those with severe neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind synaptic plasticity, which is crucial for learning and memory. By focusing on dendritic spines, the tiny structures that facilitate most excitatory synapses in the brain, the research aims to uncover how these synapses grow and retract in response to learning experiences. Using advanced imaging techniques like three-dimensional electron microscopy, the study will analyze the structural changes in synapses during long-term potentiation, a process that strengthens synaptic connections. This could provide insights into how the brain adapts and reorganizes itself in response to new information.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment of cognitive impairments and disorders related to memory and learning.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding synaptic plasticity, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas at Austin
Austin, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harris, Kristen M — University of Texas at Austin
- Study coordinator: Harris, Kristen M
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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.