Genetic Risk for Alzheimer’s in African and admixed African-American communities
Official title: Characterizing the Genetic Risk for Alzheimer Disease in African and Admixed African-American Ancestries
Funded at University of Miami School of Medicine · NIH-11595890 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers will study how genes influence Alzheimer’s risk in people of African ancestry to better understand why the disease affects diverse communities differently.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $55,106 |
| NIH project number | 3U01AG084545-03S8 |
| Project ID | NIH-11595890 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Individuals of African ancestry (including African and African American) who may participate in genetic studies, biomarker collection, MRI imaging, and long-term follow-up.
✕Less likely to help
People who do not identify with African ancestry or who are not eligible for the biomarker/imaging components may have little direct benefit.
What this research studies
This project will collect and analyze genetic data from about 9,000 individuals of African ancestry, along with brain imaging and biomarker samples, to understand how inherited factors contribute to Alzheimer's risk. It builds on a large international effort and adds more diverse participants to improve accuracy of genetic risk findings. Participants may provide blood samples, undergo MRI scans, and have follow-up visits over several years to track changes and potential early signs of cognitive decline. The goal is to identify genetic and biomarker patterns that may inform personalized prevention and treatment strategies for diverse populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more accurate genetic risk assessments and pave the way for personalized approaches to prevention and care in African-descendant populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies show genetic risk varies by ancestry, and expanding diverse cohorts has improved discovery, though specific links in African ancestry are still being refined.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Miami School of Medicine
Coral Gables, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Griswold, Anthony John — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Griswold, Anthony John
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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.