A new method to deliver multiple genes for treating diseases like Alzheimer's
Official title: A Novel Hybrid Viral Vector for Therapeutic CRISPR Insertion of Multiple Transgenes
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11188951 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on a new way to use CRISPR technology to help treat conditions like Alzheimer's by allowing doctors to insert multiple genes into cells at once, which could lead to better treatments for complex genetic issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AG084489-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11188951 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other aging-related conditions that may benefit from genetic therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions that are not related to genetic factors or those who do not have Alzheimer's or aging-related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel delivery system for CRISPR technology that can insert multiple genes into cells, which is a significant advancement over current methods that only allow for single gene insertions. The approach involves using a combination of adeno-associated viruses and adenoviruses to effectively transport genetic material into target cells. By utilizing innovative techniques, the researchers aim to enhance the efficiency of gene editing, particularly for conditions related to aging and Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from more effective treatments for complex genetic disorders that require multiple gene modifications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies for Alzheimer's disease and other aging-related conditions by enabling the treatment of multiple genetic factors simultaneously.
How similar studies have gone: While gene therapy has shown promise in treating monogenic diseases, the approach of using a hybrid viral vector for multigenic insertions is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in clinical settings.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Collins, Logan Thrasher — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Collins, Logan Thrasher
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.