Understanding how GABA neurons regulate memory in the hippocampus (CA3)
Official title: Inhibitory regulation of hippocampal CA3 neuron activity, learning, and memory
Funded at Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah · NIH-11607169 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A study in people with autistic disorder explores how a specific brain chemical, GABA, helps control memory and learning by tuning activity in a brain region called CA3.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $70,224 |
| NIH project number | 3RF1MH134515-04S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11607169 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals with autistic disorder who could contribute brain-related data or participate in future translational studies.
✕Less likely to help
People without autistic disorder or those not involved in neuroscience studies may not directly benefit.
What this research studies
This project examines how inhibitory GABA neurons influence hippocampal CA3 activity, which is linked to learning and memory. Researchers will investigate Kirrel3-expressing GABA neurons and their role in feed-forward inhibition within CA3, using neural models that reflect human brain function. The aim is to clarify mechanisms that may underlie memory differences seen in autism and related conditions. Results could guide targeted therapies to modulate brain activity in autistic individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could inform new approaches to improve learning and memory in autistic disorder by targeting specific brain circuits.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests inhibitory circuits in CA3 are important for memory; this project builds on a growing understanding of GABAergic control in autism.
Where this research is happening
-
Utah State Higher Education System--University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Megan Elise — Utah State Higher Education System--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.