Finding hidden DNA repeat changes in Alzheimer's disease
Novel approaches to identify tandem repeat expansions in neurodegenerative disease
This project looks for long repeating DNA patterns in people with Alzheimer's that might help explain genetic risk.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11307100 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work uses advanced long-read DNA sequencing to read through long repeating sections of the genome that older methods miss. Researchers will look for variable number tandem repeats (VNTRs) that are longer or shorter in people with Alzheimer's compared with others. They will compare these repeat changes to known Alzheimer's genetic risk regions and validate promising findings in the lab. The goal is to reveal previously hidden genetic contributors to Alzheimer's that could guide future tests or treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with Alzheimer's disease or related dementia who can provide a DNA sample or consent to have their genomic data analyzed.
Not a fit: People unwilling to provide DNA samples, those with non-genetic causes of cognitive decline, or those seeking immediate treatment changes are unlikely to benefit directly from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal new genetic markers for Alzheimer's that improve diagnosis and point to new targets for future therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Long-read sequencing has recently found repeat expansions that cause other neurological diseases (for example ALS), but applying this approach systematically to Alzheimer's is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Valdmanis, Paul Nils — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Valdmanis, Paul Nils
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 below.