Understanding how specific brain cells influence memory and brain activity
Official title: Functions for CA1 axo-axonic and basket interneurons in sharp-wave ripple replay and spatial memory
Funded at Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ · NIH-11045745 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how certain brain cells in the hippocampus help with memory by seeing how they work together during brain activity, which could help us understand memory problems in conditions like epilepsy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $340,599 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS131858-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11045745 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with epilepsy or memory impairments who are interested in understanding the underlying mechanisms of their conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without epilepsy or significant memory issues may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specialized brain cells called axo-axonic and basket interneurons in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory formation. By examining how these cells interact with pyramidal neurons during specific brain oscillations, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that support memory encoding and retrieval. The research employs advanced techniques to observe these interactions in living animals, providing insights into how disruptions in these processes may lead to memory deficits, particularly in conditions like epilepsy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for memory-related disorders and improve understanding of epilepsy's impact on memory.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on axo-axonic and basket interneurons is novel, similar research has shown promising results in understanding the role of interneurons in memory and epilepsy.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
Blacksburg, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: English, Daniel Fine — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: English, Daniel Fine
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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.