Understanding how the brain measures time intervals
Uncovering the neural circuit and synaptic mechanisms underlying interval timing
This study is looking at how the brain keeps track of time, which is important for learning and memory, and it's being done in mice to help us understand how this process might be affected in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11062756 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the brain encodes and perceives time intervals, which is crucial for functions like learning and memory. Using advanced imaging techniques and behavioral methods in mice, the study aims to identify specific neurons involved in timing tasks. By exploring the neural circuits and synaptic mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover how the brain processes time on a scale of seconds to minutes. This could lead to a better understanding of cognitive functions affected in conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing cognitive decline or memory issues, particularly those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with acute neurological conditions unrelated to cognitive timing or those not diagnosed with Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of cognitive impairments in Alzheimer's disease and potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neural mechanisms of timing, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill existing knowledge gaps.
Where this research is happening
Salt Lake City, United States
- University of Utah — Salt Lake City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Heys, James Gerard — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Heys, James Gerard
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.