Understanding how brain structure affects learning and memory.
Official title: Elucidating the Role of Brain Extracellular Matrix in Hippocampal Learning and Memory
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11120942 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called aggrecan in the brain helps us learn and remember things, especially in a part of the brain called the hippocampus, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how our memories work and what keeps them strong over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $54,538 |
| NIH project number | 5F30MH134458-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11120942 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are interested in understanding the biological basis of learning and memory.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with severe neurological disorders that significantly impair cognitive function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the brain's extracellular matrix, particularly a protein called aggrecan, in learning and memory processes. It focuses on how changes in this matrix can influence the brain's ability to form and retrieve memories, especially in the hippocampus, a key area for learning. The study will explore how the expression of aggrecan is affected by learning experiences and whether its presence is crucial for maintaining memory accuracy over time. By using genetic techniques, researchers aim to determine the importance of aggrecan in memory formation and retrieval.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into memory disorders and potential therapeutic strategies for improving memory function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results regarding the role of the extracellular matrix in brain function, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Guajardo, Ricardo — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Guajardo, Ricardo
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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.