Understanding how new brain cells in the hippocampus affect social memory.
Official title: Hippocampal adult-born neurons in social memory circuits
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11067810 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how new brain cells in a part of the brain called the hippocampus help us remember people and social interactions, especially for those who have trouble with social memory due to certain mental health conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 16, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $485,705 |
| NIH project number | 5R01MH133744-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11067810 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults with neuropsychiatric conditions that affect social memory, such as Alzheimer's disease or autism spectrum disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without neuropsychiatric conditions or those who do not experience social memory deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of newly formed neurons in the hippocampus and their impact on social memory, which is crucial for recognizing and remembering individuals. The study aims to explore how these adult-born neurons contribute to social memory circuits, particularly in the context of neuropsychiatric conditions that impair social interactions. By examining the connections between these neurons and other brain regions, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that could potentially restore social memory function in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving social memory in individuals with neuropsychiatric disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of adult neurogenesis in cognitive functions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cope, Elise C — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Cope, Elise C
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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.