Creating a human model to understand Alzheimer's disease mechanisms
Official title: Establishment of a Human Microphysiological System to Elucidate Cellular Mechanisms Underlying Vulnerability to AD
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11121367 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a special 3D model of the brain using cells from different people to help researchers learn more about what makes some individuals more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease, so they can find better ways to understand and treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $2,683,965 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS142331-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11121367 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or those who are at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or do not have a family history of dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a sophisticated human microphysiological system to investigate the cellular mechanisms that contribute to vulnerability to Alzheimer's disease (AD). By utilizing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) from a diverse group of participants, the study will create a 3D 'Brain-Chip' model that mimics the complex interactions between various cell types involved in AD. This innovative approach will allow researchers to better understand the genetic and biological factors that influence the onset and progression of Alzheimer's and related dementias.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar organ-on-chip technologies has shown promise in understanding complex diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young-Pearse, Tracy L — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Young-Pearse, Tracy L
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.