Understanding how brain signals support working memory
Official title: Chronic and acute molecular programs enabling working memory
Funded at Rockefeller University · NIH-11142575 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain help us remember things for a short time, like when we're reading or driving, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with memory problems, especially those with ADHD or schizophrenia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rockefeller University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $423,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133201-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11142575 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with ADHD, learning disabilities, or schizophrenia who experience working memory challenges.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without cognitive deficits or those not affected by working memory issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms in the brain that enable working memory, which is crucial for everyday tasks like reading and driving. It focuses on the role of the thalamus and prefrontal cortex in maintaining short-term memory and aims to identify new therapeutic targets for improving memory deficits. By studying both chronic and acute molecular programs, the research seeks to uncover how specific receptors in the thalamus influence memory function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for conditions like ADHD and schizophrenia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve working memory in individuals with cognitive deficits.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the brain mechanisms underlying memory, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
Rockefeller University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rajasethupathy, Priya — Rockefeller University
- Study coordinator: Rajasethupathy, Priya
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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.