Creating a new model to study early Alzheimer's disease using vervet monkeys.

Development of an Innovative Vervet (Chlorocebus aethiops sabaeus) Model of Early Alzheimer's-like Neuropathology and Symptomatology

NIH-funded research Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10868578

This study is looking at vervet monkeys to learn more about early Alzheimer's disease and its symptoms, which could help us find ways to spot and treat the disease earlier in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Winston-Salem, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868578 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a vervet monkey model to better understand early Alzheimer's disease and its symptoms. By studying these nonhuman primates, researchers aim to observe age-related brain changes that closely resemble those in humans, such as the formation of amyloid plaques and cognitive deficits. The approach includes advanced imaging techniques and cerebrospinal fluid analysis to gather insights into the disease's progression and potential interventions. This model may help identify modifiable risk factors for Alzheimer's, paving the way for early interventions in humans.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for benefiting from this research include individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with modifiable risk factors.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have any risk factors for the condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for Alzheimer's disease in humans.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using nonhuman primate models has shown promise in understanding Alzheimer's disease, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Winston-Salem, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.