Effects of lipid droplets in brain cells on oxidative stress and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: IMPACTS OF GLIAL LIPID DROPLETS ON OXIDATIVE STRESS AND NEURODEGENERATION IN ALZHEIMER'S DISEASE
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11096009 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tiny fat droplets in brain cells might affect stress in the brain and lead to Alzheimer's disease, with the goal of finding early signs of risk so that we can help people sooner.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2021 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $447,262 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG073260-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11096009 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic risk factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any genetic predisposition to the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how lipid droplets in glial cells may influence oxidative stress and contribute to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. By examining the relationship between reactive oxygen species and lipid metabolism, the study aims to identify early indicators of Alzheimer's risk. The researchers will utilize models including flies and mice, alongside human data, to explore the mechanisms behind lipid droplet formation and its impact on neuronal health. This could lead to new strategies for early intervention in at-risk patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of lipid metabolism in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bellen, Hugo J — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Bellen, Hugo J
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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.