Understanding how certain brain cells regulate learning and memory
Official title: Inhibitory regulation of hippocampal CA3 neuron activity, learning, and memory
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-11054607 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at special brain cells that help control learning and memory, and it hopes to find out how they work together to keep our brains balanced, which could help us understand memory-related issues better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $567,091 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH134515-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054607 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological disorders that affect learning and memory, such as autism spectrum disorder or other cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with purely physical health conditions unrelated to cognitive function may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of inhibitory neurons in the hippocampus, specifically focusing on how they influence learning and memory processes. By examining a specific group of GABAergic neurons that express a protein called Kirrel3, the study aims to understand how these neurons interact with excitatory neurons to maintain balanced brain activity. The research employs advanced techniques to observe neuron behavior and connectivity, which could lead to insights into neurological disorders. Patients may benefit from findings that enhance our understanding of memory-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for memory-related disorders and improve cognitive function in affected patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of GABAergic neurons in brain function, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Megan Elise — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Williams, Megan Elise
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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.