Understanding how certain brain areas influence fear memory in the hippocampus

The role of subcortical inputs to the hippocampal CA3 region in fear memory

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10977045

This study is looking at how certain parts of the brain work together to shape our memories of fear, especially focusing on a key area called the CA3 region of the hippocampus, and it aims to find ways to help people with anxiety by understanding these connections better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-10977045 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the connections between the hippocampus and specific subcortical brain areas to understand how they affect fear memory. The study focuses on the CA3 region of the hippocampus, which plays a crucial role in contextual learning. By examining how inputs from the basolateral amygdala and supramammillary nucleus influence the activity of CA3 neurons, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could enhance or suppress fear responses. Patients may benefit from insights gained about fear memory processing and potential therapeutic targets for anxiety-related disorders.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals experiencing anxiety disorders or those with heightened fear responses.

Not a fit: Patients with no history of anxiety or fear-related disorders may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for anxiety and fear-related disorders by targeting specific brain pathways.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of subcortical inputs in memory processing, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.