How a specific gene from a virus may influence Alzheimer's disease
Impact of the Human Herpesvirus 6A (HHV6A) latency gene U94A on Alzheimer disease pathology
This study is looking at how a specific gene from the human herpesvirus 6A might influence the development of Alzheimer's disease by affecting brain cells, and it aims to find new ways to help treat or understand this condition better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11103233 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the U94A gene from the human herpesvirus 6A (HHV6A) in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By examining human cell systems, the study aims to understand how U94A affects the function of glial progenitor cells and neurons, potentially leading to synapse loss and increased accumulation of harmful proteins associated with AD. The researchers will analyze changes in gene expression and protein levels to uncover mechanisms that may contribute to the pathology of Alzheimer's. This work could provide insights into the infectious factors that may exacerbate AD and identify new therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with a family history or early signs of cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients with Alzheimer's disease who do not have any association with HHV6A or those with other forms of dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting viral genes that influence disease progression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown associations between viral infections and Alzheimer's disease, but this specific investigation into the U94A gene is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- University of Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mayer-Proschel, Margot — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Mayer-Proschel, Margot
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.