Understanding how the hippocampus helps with memory during exploration

Hippocampal-dependent spatial memory encoding during attentive processing from place

['FUNDING_R21'] · TRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11002013

This study is looking at how a part of the brain called the hippocampus helps rats remember where they are, especially when they stand on their hind legs to explore new places, and it could help us understand memory in both animals and people better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorTRUSTEES OF INDIANA UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BLOOMINGTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11002013 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the hippocampus in spatial memory, particularly during a specific behavior called rearing, where animals stand on their hind legs. The study will use rats to explore how this behavior contributes to memory encoding and whether it is essential for learning about new environments. By employing advanced techniques like optogenetic modulation, researchers aim to understand the neuronal changes that occur during these moments of exploration. The findings could provide insights into how memory works in both animals and potentially humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would be individuals with cognitive retention disorders or those interested in memory function.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have cognitive retention issues or are not interested in memory-related research may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of memory processes, which may lead to improved treatments for cognitive disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on rearing and its impact on spatial memory is novel, previous research has successfully explored hippocampal functions in memory, indicating potential for meaningful findings.

Where this research is happening

BLOOMINGTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Cognitive Retention Disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.