Creating human brain cell models to study aging and Alzheimer's disease
Develop age-relevant glial cellular models using human directly reprogrammed cells
This study is looking at how our brains age and how that relates to diseases like Alzheimer's by turning skin cells into brain cells, which could help find better treatments for memory problems as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Duarte, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11092820 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of brain aging and its connection to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. By using a technique called direct reprogramming, researchers will convert human skin cells into brain cells that reflect age-related changes. This innovative approach aims to create a more accurate model of human brain aging, which can help in identifying potential therapies for age-related cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from insights gained through these human models, which could lead to improved treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's or other non-age-related neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for age-related neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using human cellular models to study neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
Duarte, United States
- Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope — Duarte, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shi, Yanhong — Beckman Research Institute/city of Hope
- Study coordinator: Shi, Yanhong
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.