Memory decline is a hallmark of many brain disorders, including Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and autism spectrum disorders. A growing body of evidence suggests that this may be linked to a failure in energy supply at the brain’s synapses—the critical junctions where neurons communicate.

To store information, synapses must undergo plastic changes, a process heavily dependent on a local energy source: ATP (adenosine triphosphate). While certain synaptic proteins help regulate or consume ATP, it remains unclear whether synapses adapt the expression of these proteins to meet the long-term demands of memory storage.

This project led by Chao Sun Group aims to uncover whether synapses can fine-tune their energy regulation machinery—and whether this ability deteriorates with age. Understanding this mechanism is crucial, as age-related impairments in synaptic energy supply could be a driving force behind memory decline.

The project is made possible through a Sapere Aude Starting Grant of over DKK 6 million. To drive the project forward, a position for a postdoctoral researcher—and eventually a PhD student—has been announced.

According to Group Leader Chao Sun this research could ultimately identify novel strategies for restoring memory function in the ageing brain:

"By understanding how synapses manage their energy supply, we hope to uncover new strategies to restore memory function in the ageing brain,” says Group Leader Chao Sun. “This research could open the door to targeted interventions that support cognitive health later in life".

A total of DKK 219 million has been granted to 36 researchers.

• Read more about the grant
• See the open call for a postdoctoral researcher