Exploring genetic links to Alzheimer's disease in Pakistan's consanguineous population

Leveraging Consanguinity in Pakistan to Uncover the Genomic Architecture of Alzheimer's Disease: Feasibility Study with ENIGMA-PAK

NIH-funded research Palo Alto Veterans Instit for Research · NIH-10985324

This study is looking at how genetics might play a role in Alzheimer's disease by working with families in Pakistan where cousins often marry, and it aims to gather information from participants to help find better ways to prevent and treat dementia.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionPalo Alto Veterans Instit for Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Palo Alto, United States)
Project IDNIH-10985324 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the genetic factors contributing to Alzheimer's disease by studying families in Pakistan where marriage between relatives is common. The project aims to collect genetic and MRI data from a group of participants to understand how these factors may influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's and related dementias. By focusing on a unique population, the study hopes to uncover new insights that could lead to better prevention and treatment strategies for dementia. Participants will be recruited from both urban and peri-urban areas in Pakistan, providing a diverse sample for analysis.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older from consanguineous families in Pakistan.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have a family history of Alzheimer's disease or are not part of consanguineous unions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential new treatments for Alzheimer's disease, particularly in populations with high rates of consanguinity.

How similar studies have performed: While research on consanguinity and Alzheimer's is limited, similar studies in other regions have shown promise in uncovering genetic links to dementia.

Where this research is happening

Palo Alto, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.