APOE4 effects on neutrophil–microglia communication in Alzheimer's
Sex-dependent APOE4 regulation of neutrophil-microglia crosstalk in Alzheimer's disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11237121
This project looks at whether carrying the APOE4 gene changes how two immune cells (neutrophils and microglia) behave in Alzheimer's and whether that speeds brain damage.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11237121 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's perspective, the team uses mouse models that carry human APOE variants and lab studies of immune cells to see how APOE4 in neutrophils influences microglia and brain inflammation. They will manipulate APOE in neutrophils, observe signaling between neutrophils and microglia, and measure memory and nerve-cell loss in Alzheimer's mouse models. The researchers will compare APOE4 effects with other APOE types and search for molecules involved in the harmful immune interaction. The goal is to identify immune pathways that could point to new treatment strategies for people with or at risk for Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This research is most relevant to people with late-onset Alzheimer's disease and people who carry the APOE4 genetic variant.
Not a fit: People whose dementia is caused by non-APOE4 genetic mutations or by unrelated neurological diseases may not directly benefit from findings focused on APOE4-driven immune changes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal immune mechanisms to target with new therapies that slow or prevent Alzheimer's progression in APOE4 carriers.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown APOE shapes microglial behavior and that neutrophils can worsen Alzheimer's in animal models, but specifically targeting neutrophil–microglia crosstalk is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BUTOVSKY, OLEG — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: BUTOVSKY, OLEG
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.