Understanding how the brain maintains activity over time
Mechanisms of persistent neural activity
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES · NIH-11088286
This study looks at how the brain keeps working even when it's not getting any outside information, which is important for thinking and memory, and it uses marmosets to help us learn more about this process so we can find better treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11088286 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms that allow the brain to sustain neural activity without ongoing sensory input, which is crucial for cognitive functions. By using advanced techniques for neural recordings and analyzing large datasets, the study aims to explore how specific brain circuits and cells contribute to this persistent activity. The research focuses on the marmoset, a nonhuman primate, to provide insights that could be relevant for understanding disorders like Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from the findings as they could lead to new therapeutic strategies for cognitive impairments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with cognitive impairments or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with acute neurological conditions or those not affected by cognitive decline may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating cognitive disorders such as Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding neural mechanisms in nonhuman primates, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES — LOS ANGELES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUK, ALEXANDER C — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA LOS ANGELES
- Study coordinator: HUK, ALEXANDER C
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease