Understanding how the brain processes spatial information over time

How neural signals are integrated over time

NIH-funded research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11023078

This study looks at how the brain helps us remember where we are and how we got there, using fruit flies as a model, to better understand memory problems that can happen in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding better treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWeill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-11023078 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the brain integrates sensory information over time to create a working memory of spatial navigation. By studying the neural mechanisms in the Drosophila central complex, which shares similarities with mammalian systems, the research aims to uncover how the brain tracks direction and distance traveled. This understanding is crucial as impairments in spatial working memory are common in neurological disorders such as Alzheimer's disease. The findings could lead to more effective treatments for these conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive impairments.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurological conditions or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for patients with Alzheimer's disease and other neurological disorders affecting memory and navigation.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding neural mechanisms of memory and navigation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease patient
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.