Exploring a nonhuman primate model for frontotemporal dementia
Official title: In vitro nonhuman primate model of frontotemporal dementia
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10899340 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in younger people by using special cells from monkeys with a gene linked to the disease, to better understand how FTD affects the brain and to find new ways to help those with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $37,415 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AG084303-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899340 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of frontotemporal dementia or those who carry the MAPT R406W mutation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with forms of dementia unrelated to the MAPT gene mutation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates frontotemporal dementia (FTD), a form of dementia that primarily affects younger individuals, by utilizing induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) derived from rhesus macaques carrying a specific genetic mutation linked to FTD. The study aims to understand the disease's pathology by examining how these cells behave in vitro, particularly focusing on tau protein aggregation and neuronal function. By creating a nonhuman primate model, researchers hope to replicate human-like symptoms and identify potential biomarkers and therapies for FTD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for frontotemporal dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has successfully utilized nonhuman primate models to study neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting a promising avenue for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Colwell, Julia Claire — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Colwell, Julia Claire
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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.