Understanding how brain connections grow and change in health and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Cellular and molecular mechanisms of dendritic spine growth and stabilization in health and disease
Funded at University of California at Davis · NIH-11072888 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny structures in the brain, called dendritic spines, grow and change when we learn new things, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, to find ways to help improve memory and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California at Davis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Davis, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $706,959 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS137635-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072888 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive impairments not related to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cellular and molecular processes that influence the growth and stability of dendritic spines, which are crucial for learning and memory. Using advanced imaging techniques, researchers will visualize how these spines change in response to different experiences and how these changes are affected in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to uncover the signaling mechanisms that regulate these processes, potentially leading to new insights into cognitive dysfunction. By understanding these mechanisms, the research hopes to identify targets for therapeutic interventions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dendritic spine dynamics, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California at Davis
Davis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zito, Karen — University of California at Davis
- Study coordinator: Zito, Karen
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.