Finding new treatments for brain problems linked to the APOE4 gene
Official title: Identifying compounds that target APOE4 associated brain endothelial dysfunction
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10909260 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called APOE4 impacts the blood vessels in the brain, which is important for keeping our brains healthy, and it aims to find new treatments that could help people with Alzheimer's and other memory-related issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 3, 2022 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $397,273 |
| NIH project number | 5R33NS124970-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10909260 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who carry the APOE4 gene and are experiencing cognitive decline or are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not carry the APOE4 gene or who do not have cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the APOE4 gene affects brain blood vessel function, which is crucial for maintaining brain health. It focuses on understanding the mechanisms by which APOE4 contributes to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease. The researchers will develop laboratory tests to screen for compounds that can improve the function of brain endothelial cells affected by APOE4. By identifying these compounds, the study aims to find potential new therapies for neurodegenerative disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain health and cognitive function in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in targeting brain endothelial dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tai, Leon Maing — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Tai, Leon Maing
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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.