Exploring how genetics and environment contribute to dementia risk
Official title: Integrating Polygenic Risk and Environmental Exposures to Uncover Biological Mechanisms Underlying Dementia in a Diverse Cohort
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11237751 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our genes and the places we live can affect our chances of getting dementia, especially Alzheimer's, and it’s for people who want to help us understand how these factors work together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 16, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $69,550 |
| NIH project number | 4K00AG079792-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11237751 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those with a family history of dementia or cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any genetic predisposition to dementia may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex relationship between genetic factors and environmental influences on the risk of developing dementia, particularly Alzheimer's disease. It aims to identify how social, built, and physical environmental variables interact with genetic predispositions to affect cognitive decline. By analyzing a diverse cohort, the study will explore both genetic markers and environmental exposures to uncover biological mechanisms that contribute to dementia. Patients may be asked to provide genetic information and participate in assessments related to their living conditions and health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential prevention strategies for dementia, benefiting patients at risk.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the genetic and environmental interplay in dementia, but this approach of integrating multiple genetic factors with diverse environmental exposures is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xue, Diane — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Xue, Diane
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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.