Finding Protective Genes for Alzheimer's in the Amish Community
Protective Genetic Variants for Alzheimer Disease in the Amish - RENEWAL
This project looks for specific genes in the Amish community that might protect against Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11090466 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Alzheimer's disease is a challenging condition, and current treatments are limited. This project focuses on the Amish community in Indiana and Ohio, who offer a unique chance to find genes that protect against Alzheimer's. Because of their shared ancestry and stable community, it's easier to spot rare genetic differences that might prevent the disease. Researchers are following older Amish individuals who are currently healthy but at risk for Alzheimer's. The goal is to identify these protective genes and understand early signs of the disease before memory problems appear.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project focuses on older individuals within the Amish communities of Indiana and Ohio who are at high risk for Alzheimer's but currently show no signs of cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients already diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those outside the specific Amish communities being studied would not directly benefit from participation in this particular research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new ways to prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease by understanding natural protection mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: While many studies identify risk factors for Alzheimer's, research specifically identifying protective genetic variants in unique populations like the Amish is less common and builds on prior work within this cohort.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Haines, Jonathan L — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Haines, Jonathan L
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.