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 a type of breast cancer treatment called aromatase inhibitors might affect thinking and brain health in marmosets, which are small monkeys, to help us understand their long-term effects and see if a new drug can help reduce any problems caused by these treatments.
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-11211219 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, the study aims to understand the long-term impacts of these medications on brain health and behavior, particularly focusing on cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease risk. The researchers will also explore whether a new drug can mitigate the negative effects associated with these treatments. This approach allows for a controlled environment to study these complex interactions, which are difficult to assess in human subjects.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals undergoing treatment with aromatase inhibitors for estrogen-responsive breast cancer.
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: While the specific approach using non-human primates is novel, previous studies have indicated that understanding estrogen's role in cognitive function can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies.
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.