Understanding how memories are formed and erased in the brain
Official title: Towards a critical test of the synaptic plasticity and memory hypothesis
Funded at New York University · NIH-11012859 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains store and forget memories, focusing on the tiny connections between brain cells, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how learning works and why we sometimes lose memories.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | New York University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $496,171 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH132204-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11012859 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation would include individuals experiencing memory loss or cognitive decline, particularly those with conditions like amnesia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with intact memory function or those not experiencing cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind memory storage and erasure in the brain, focusing on the synaptic plasticity and memory (SPM) hypothesis. It explores how learning induces changes at specific synapses in neurons, which are crucial for encoding memories. The study employs advanced techniques, including intracranial administration of specific compounds, to manipulate synaptic functions and observe their effects on memory retention and loss. By selectively targeting synapses associated with memory, the research aims to provide insights into the biological basis of memory and its potential vulnerabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating memory-related disorders, such as amnesia or other cognitive impairments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding memory mechanisms through similar approaches, although this specific investigation may offer novel insights.
Where this research is happening
-
New York University
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fenton, Andre Antonio — New York University
- Study coordinator: Fenton, Andre Antonio
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.