Developing tools to study a specific type of brain immune cell in neurological diseases

Molecular Tool Development to Identify, Isolate, and Interrogate the Rod Microglia Phenotype in Neurological Disease and Injury

['FUNDING_R01'] · ARIZONA VETERANS RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FOUNDATION · NIH-11014069

This study is looking at special immune cells in the brain called rod microglia to learn more about their role in conditions like Alzheimer's, with the hope that this research will help improve how we diagnose and treat these diseases.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorARIZONA VETERANS RESEARCH AND EDUCATION FOUNDATION (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHOENIX, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11014069 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on creating new molecular tools to identify and study rod microglia, a unique type of immune cell in the brain that has been linked to various neurological conditions, including Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias. By analyzing these cells, researchers aim to better understand their role in neuroinflammation and brain injury. The study utilizes advanced techniques such as single-cell RNA sequencing to explore the genetic characteristics of rod microglia, which could lead to breakthroughs in diagnosing and treating neurological diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias, as well as those who have experienced acquired brain injuries.

Not a fit: Patients with neurological conditions not related to Alzheimer's Disease or acquired brain injuries may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapeutic strategies for patients with Alzheimer's Disease and related neurological disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the investigation of rod microglia is relatively novel, previous research has shown promise in understanding microglial roles in other neurological conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

PHOENIX, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury, Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.