Understanding how our body clock affects memory in aging and Alzheimer's
Diurnal control of memory allocation by the circadian gene Per1
This research explores how our natural 24-hour body clock, specifically a gene called Per1, influences memory formation, especially as we age and in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State University, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (University Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11111258 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have an internal clock that guides many processes, including memory, throughout the day. As people get older and in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, both memory and this internal clock can be affected, but we don't fully understand how they are connected. This project looks at a specific gene, Per1, which seems to link our body clock to how memories are made in the brain. We want to learn how Per1 controls memory formation during different times of the day and how this process changes in the aging brain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical applications could benefit individuals experiencing age-related memory decline or Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients not experiencing age-related memory issues or Alzheimer's disease are unlikely to see direct benefit from this specific line of basic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to improve memory and address cognitive decline in older adults and those with Alzheimer's disease by targeting our natural body clock.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work has shown that the Per1 gene plays a role in both the body's internal clock and memory, and preliminary data supports its influence on memory formation throughout the day.
Where this research is happening
University Park, United States
- Pennsylvania State University, the — University Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kwapis, Janine Lynn — Pennsylvania State University, the
- Study coordinator: Kwapis, Janine Lynn
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.