Effects of brain estrogens on thinking and aging in primates
Impact of brain estrogens on cognition and brain aging in a non-human primate
This study is looking at how medications called aromatase inhibitors, used for treating some breast cancers, might affect thinking and brain health in marmosets, which are small monkeys, to help us understand their long-term effects and see if a special drug can help reduce any negative impacts.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hadley, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11009505 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how aromatase inhibitors, which are used to treat certain breast cancers, affect cognitive function and brain aging in non-human primates. By using marmosets, researchers aim to understand the long-term impacts of these medications on brain health and behavior, particularly focusing on cognitive decline and the risk of Alzheimer's disease. The study will also explore whether a specific prodrug can mitigate the negative effects associated with these treatments. This approach allows for a controlled examination of the cognitive and emotional consequences of chronic medication use.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing treatment with aromatase inhibitors for estrogen-responsive breast cancers.
Not a fit: Patients not receiving aromatase inhibitors or those with unrelated cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that minimize cognitive side effects for patients undergoing aromatase inhibitor therapy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that studying cognitive effects in primate models can yield valuable insights, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Hadley, United States
- University of Massachusetts Amherst — Hadley, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lacreuse, Agnes — University of Massachusetts Amherst
- Study coordinator: Lacreuse, Agnes
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.