Understanding how neurons maintain balance during learning and memory.
Official title: Nascent protein degradation-based fast homeostatic mechanism mediated by neuronal membrane proteasomes
Funded at Georgetown University · NIH-11086090 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special part of brain cells helps keep their activity steady while we learn and remember things, using tadpoles to see what happens when this part is blocked.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Georgetown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Washington, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $386,920 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS133441-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11086090 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals experiencing cognitive dysfunction or disorders related to learning and memory.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable cognitive function or those not affected by learning and memory disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurons use a specific mechanism to maintain stability in their activity during learning and memory processes. It focuses on a newly discovered type of proteasome found in neuronal membranes that degrades newly formed proteins, which is crucial for balancing neuronal activity. By studying this process in tadpoles, the researchers aim to uncover how these mechanisms interact with learning-induced changes in the brain. The approach involves observing the effects of inhibiting this proteasome on neuronal activity and behavior.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into treating cognitive disorders related to learning and memory.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying neuronal membrane proteasomes is novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding neuronal plasticity and cognitive function.
Where this research is happening
-
Georgetown University
Washington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: He, Haiyan — Georgetown University
- Study coordinator: He, Haiyan
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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.