How a specific protein complex affects brain immune cells in Alzheimer's disease

The regulation of the microglial response to amyloid-beta plaques by the polycomb repressive complex 2

NIH-funded research Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10987038

This study is looking at how a specific protein complex affects the brain's immune cells in response to harmful plaques linked to Alzheimer's disease, using specially modified mice to see how these immune cells behave and protect the brain, which could help find new treatments for the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIcahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New York, United States)
Project IDNIH-10987038 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein complex called polycomb repressive complex 2 (PRC2) in regulating the brain's immune cells, known as microglia, in response to amyloid-beta plaques associated with Alzheimer's disease. By studying genetically modified mice, the researchers aim to understand how PRC2 influences microglial behavior and their protective functions against plaque toxicity. The approach includes examining the signaling pathways involved and the transcriptional changes that occur in microglia when PRC2 is deficient. This research could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with amyloid-beta accumulation.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to amyloid-beta pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for enhancing the brain's immune response to Alzheimer's disease, potentially slowing disease progression.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding microglial responses in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

New York, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.