Understanding unique human brain changes that support learning and memory
Discovering human divergent activity-regulated elements using comparative, computational, and functional approaches
This work explores how human brains adapt and learn, focusing on special genetic elements that might make our brains more flexible but also more vulnerable to certain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11146387 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains are constantly changing and learning from new experiences, a process called plasticity, which involves changes in how our genes work. Humans have a particularly long period of brain development and learning compared to other species, but we don't fully understand why or how this happens. This project aims to find specific genetic differences in humans that control how our brains respond to new experiences. By comparing human and non-human primate brains, we hope to uncover the unique ways human neurons support this increased flexibility.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation, but future studies building on this knowledge may seek individuals with neurodevelopmental disorders or those interested in brain plasticity.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or direct clinical intervention for a specific condition will not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of human brain development, learning, and why some individuals are more susceptible to neurodevelopmental disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach to identify human-divergent activity-regulated elements is novel, other studies have successfully identified regulatory elements as key drivers of evolutionary change.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pollen, Alexander a — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Pollen, Alexander a
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.