How a gene related to sex differences affects aging and Alzheimer's disease
Contribution of HUWE1 to sex differences in aging and Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how a specific gene called HUWE1 might act differently in women and men as they age, especially in relation to Alzheimer's disease, by examining brain samples from both female mice and humans to learn more about how this gene could affect brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10932951 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the HUWE1 gene, which is linked to sex differences in aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). It focuses on how this gene, located on the X chromosome, may be expressed differently in females compared to males, particularly as they age. The study will analyze brain samples from female mice and humans with and without AD to understand the gene's behavior and its potential impact on neurodegeneration. By examining the levels of HUWE1 in these subjects, researchers aim to uncover new insights into the biological mechanisms behind sex differences in aging and AD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include females with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it, as well as healthy females for comparison.
Not a fit: Patients who are male or those without any neurodegenerative conditions may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for Alzheimer's disease, particularly for women who may be affected differently than men.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus on HUWE1 and its role in sex differences in aging and Alzheimer's is novel, related research has shown that sex chromosomes can influence neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsvetkov, Andrey — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Tsvetkov, Andrey
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.