Understanding how early experiences shape memory development in the brain
Dynamic modulation of postnatal development of preconfigured and plastic time-compressed sequences
This study is looking at how our ability to remember past events changes as we grow up, especially why we often can’t remember things from when we were very young, and it’s for anyone curious about how our memories work and develop over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10672466 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how episodic memory, the ability to recall past events, develops and deteriorates over time, particularly focusing on the phenomenon of infantile amnesia. By studying the hippocampus in both humans and animals, the research aims to understand how early-life experiences and synaptic changes in the brain influence memory formation. The approach includes chronic recording of brain activity in awake and sleeping subjects to observe how memories are encoded and consolidated. This could provide insights into the critical periods of memory development and the underlying neural mechanisms involved.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who may be experiencing memory loss or related cognitive issues.
Not a fit: Patients with established, severe neurological disorders that significantly impair cognitive function may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for memory-related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding memory development and the role of the hippocampus, indicating that this approach has a foundation in established science.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dragoi, George — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Dragoi, George
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 below.