Exploring how certain genes affect brain cell activity and fat processing in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Investigating the effects of APOE and APOE-related AD risk genes on human microglia activity and lipid metabolism in aging and disease
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10900992 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes, especially APOE, affect brain cells that help keep our brains healthy as we age and deal with Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to treat or prevent the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $745,765 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG081417-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900992 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults and individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic predispositions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or those without genetic risk factors for the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific genes, particularly APOE, in how brain cells called microglia respond to aging and Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on understanding how these cells manage cholesterol and lipid levels in the brain, which is crucial for maintaining brain health. By examining the genetic factors that influence microglial activity, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments or preventive strategies for Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer's disease and improve brain health in aging individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of APOE in Alzheimer's disease, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marcora, Edoardo — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Marcora, Edoardo
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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.