Understanding how certain brain receptors are regulated and their role in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Modulation of Heteromeric AMPA-Subtype iGluRs by Auxiliary Subunits
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-11031948 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain receptors that help nerve cells communicate work, especially in relation to learning and memory, to find new ways to help people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $51,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS132554-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11031948 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological disorders unrelated to glutamate receptor dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind the functioning of specific brain receptors known as ionotropic glutamate receptors (iGluRs), which are crucial for fast communication between nerve cells. By examining how these receptors are influenced by various ligands and auxiliary subunits, the study aims to uncover their roles in learning, memory, and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. The approach involves detailed structural and functional analysis of these receptors to better understand their behavior in the brain, particularly in the context of disease. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of iGluRs in neurological disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yen, Laura Yaunhee — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Yen, Laura Yaunhee
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.