Exploring how a specific signaling pathway affects Alzheimer's Disease using stem cells

Investigating the role of the fractalkine axis in Alzheimer's Disease pathology using human induced pluripotent stem cells

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11221029

This study is looking at how a specific communication system in the brain affects Alzheimer's Disease by using special human cells, hoping to find new ways to help people with the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11221029 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the fractalkine signaling pathway in the pathology of Alzheimer's Disease (AD) by utilizing human induced pluripotent stem cells. The study focuses on understanding how communication between microglia, the brain's immune cells, and neurons influences neurodegeneration associated with AD. By examining the interactions through the CX3CR1/CX3CL1 axis, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to the disease, which have been inadequately addressed in traditional mouse models. This approach seeks to provide insights that could lead to more effective therapeutic strategies for AD patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or those at risk due to genetic factors.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's Disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for treating Alzheimer's Disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding neurodegeneration through similar signaling pathways, but this approach using human stem cells is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.