Creating a system to study genetic and age-related factors in Alzheimer's disease
Developing a microfluidic human neurovascular unit system to investigate genetic and age-related risk factors in Alzheimer's disease
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-10504196
This study is creating a tiny model of the brain's blood and nerve cells to see how age and genetics affect Alzheimer's disease, using cells from both young and older people to help find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10504196 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a microfluidic system that mimics the human neurovascular unit to better understand how genetic and age-related factors contribute to Alzheimer's disease. By using human pluripotent stem cells, researchers will create a 3D model that incorporates blood from both young and older individuals, allowing for a detailed comparison of how these factors affect brain health. The study employs advanced techniques like CRISPR/Cas9 to introduce specific mutations and analyze the resulting changes in brain cell behavior. This innovative approach seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or those who are experiencing early signs of cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using microphysiological systems to study neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SPROUL, ANDREW ALEXANDER — COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES
- Study coordinator: SPROUL, ANDREW ALEXANDER
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer disease, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's disease dementia, Alzheimers disease