How a specific gene variant affects immune cell interactions in Alzheimer's disease

Gender-dependent APOE4 regulation of neutrophil-microglia crosstalk in Alzheimer's disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-10996091

This study is looking at how a specific gene called APOE4 affects the way certain immune cells in the brain interact, which might help us understand why some people with Alzheimer's experience memory loss and brain changes, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10996091 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the APOE4 gene variant, which is a significant genetic risk factor for late-onset Alzheimer's disease, in regulating interactions between neutrophils and microglia, two types of immune cells in the brain. The study aims to understand how neutrophils, influenced by APOE4, may contribute to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients. By examining the effects of APOE variants on these immune cells, the researchers hope to uncover mechanisms that drive disease progression. The findings could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease, particularly those carrying the APOE4 variant.

Not a fit: Patients without the APOE4 variant 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 slowing down or preventing cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding immune cell interactions in Alzheimer's disease can lead to significant advancements in treatment approaches, suggesting that this study builds on established findings.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.