Creating a 3D model to develop new treatments for frontotemporal dementia
Official title: 3D in vitro model of genetic and sporadic FTD: accelerating novel therapeutic development
Funded at Synapticure, INC. · NIH-11183885 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating a special 3D model of the brain using cells from people with frontotemporal dementia, so researchers can better understand the disease and find new ways to diagnose and treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Synapticure, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kenilworth, United States) |
| Project start | May 9, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,253,527 |
| NIH project number | 1R44NS143521-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11183885 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to frontotemporal degeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel 3D in vitro model to better understand and treat frontotemporal dementia (FTD). By using patient-derived cells, the researchers aim to create brain organoids that accurately mimic the disease's characteristics. This model will allow for the testing of new therapies and biomarkers, potentially leading to improved diagnostics and treatment options for patients. The approach seeks to overcome limitations of existing models that have not effectively translated to human applications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments and diagnostic tools for patients suffering from frontotemporal dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar 3D organoid models has shown promise in advancing our understanding of neurodegenerative diseases, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Synapticure, INC.
Kenilworth, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ghaffari, Layla — Synapticure, INC.
- Study coordinator: Ghaffari, Layla
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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3D brain models from patient iPSCs to speed FTD therapies
A small business is developing patient-derived 3D brain cell models to speed the discovery of diagnostics and treatments for frontotemporal dementia.
-
Creating brain models to test treatments for ALS and frontotemporal dementia
This study is creating tiny 3D brain models from patient cells to help find better ways to diagnose and treat ALS and frontotemporal dementia, making it easier to understand these conditions and discover new treatments.
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.