Understanding how dopamine affects memory and rewards in older adults
Official title: Dopaminergic mechanisms of reward memory in aging
Funded at Brandeis University · NIH-10824534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how dopamine affects memory and feelings of reward in older adults, using brain scans to see how these processes work together, and it hopes to help us understand changes in thinking as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brandeis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Waltham, United States) |
| Project start | July 16, 2024 |
| Project end | July 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $35,703 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AG085963-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10824534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are cognitively normal older adults who are interested in understanding the mechanisms of memory and reward processing.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with significant cognitive impairments or those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of dopamine in memory and reward processing among older adults. By using advanced imaging techniques like PET and fMRI, the study aims to understand how dopamine release influences the ability to remember rewarding experiences. Participants will undergo tests to measure dopamine levels and brain activity while engaging in tasks related to memory and rewards. The findings could provide insights into cognitive decline associated with aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for enhancing memory and cognitive function in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dopamine's role in cognition, but this specific approach in humans is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Brandeis University
Waltham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ciampa, Claire — Brandeis University
- Study coordinator: Ciampa, Claire
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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.