Exploring how aging brain cells affect Alzheimer's disease progression
Official title: Investigating the Impact of Novel Senescent Microglia in Alzheimer's Disease Progression
Funded at Mayo Clinic Rochester · NIH-10883863 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special type of brain cell that might make Alzheimer's disease worse, and by figuring out how to remove these cells in mice, researchers hope to find new ways to help people with Alzheimer's feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $461,058 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087361-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10883863 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific type of brain cell, known as senescent microglia, in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced techniques to analyze these cells, the researchers aim to understand how they contribute to the disease and whether removing them can slow its progression. The study involves a novel mouse model that allows for the targeted elimination of these cells, providing insights into potential new treatments for Alzheimer's. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to innovative therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting microglial cells for therapeutic purposes, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Yi — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Yi
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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.