Fixing calcium and cell-cleanup problems in Alzheimer's brain cells
Calcium signaling and autophagy defects in Alzheimer's disease neurons
This work looks at whether medicines that calm abnormal calcium signals and boost neurons' cleanup systems can protect brain cells affected by Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11248422 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use genetically modified mouse models of Alzheimer’s to test three approaches: drugs that dampen overactive ryanodine receptor calcium release, compounds that boost the SERCA calcium pump, and genetic blockers of STK11IP. They will measure whether these interventions restore neuronal autophagy, protect synapses, and reduce neurodegenerative changes. Experiments combine molecular assays, cell biology, and functional measurements of neuron and synapse health to identify promising targets. Successful laboratory results would guide development of drug candidates for future human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment could be future candidates for clinical trials that build on these findings.
Not a fit: This is preclinical work, so patients with unrelated types of dementia or those hoping for immediate treatment benefits will not gain direct clinical benefit now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could identify new drug targets and lead molecules that restore cell autophagy and protect neurons in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Related laboratory studies linking calcium signaling and autophagy to Alzheimer’s have shown promise in animal and cell models, but translating these findings to effective human treatments remains largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yamamoto, Ai — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Yamamoto, Ai
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.