Epigenetic changes in ACVR1C linked to memory loss in aging and Alzheimer’s
Delineating how epigenetic regulation of ACVR1C contributes to age and AD-related memory impairments in females and males
This work looks at whether changes in the ACVR1C gene in the brain cause memory problems in older adults and people with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Arizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Scottsdale, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11308341 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You'll hear researchers are studying how the ACVR1C gene is turned on or off (epigenetic regulation) in male and female brains as people age and with Alzheimer's. They will use laboratory models that mimic Alzheimer's, analyze brain tissue and molecular markers, and measure effects on synaptic plasticity and long-term memory. The team will test whether boosting ACVR1C activity in the hippocampus can reverse memory and synaptic problems seen with aging and in Alzheimer's models. Results could point to new biological targets for treatments to help preserve or restore memory.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be older adults (especially age 65+) with memory complaints, mild cognitive impairment, or early Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: People without cognitive decline or those whose memory problems are due to non‑Alzheimer's causes may not benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could identify ACVR1C as a new target for therapies that restore memory function in aging and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Related preclinical work showed that increasing Acvr1c in the hippocampus improved memory in aging and Alzheimer's mouse models, but the approach has not yet been tested in people.
Where this research is happening
Scottsdale, United States
- Arizona State University-Tempe Campus — Scottsdale, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Keiser, Ashley a — Arizona State University-Tempe Campus
- Study coordinator: Keiser, Ashley a
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.