How aging affects the risk of Alzheimer's and related dementias

Brain aging and Alzheimer's related dementias: convergence onto retrotransposons and endogenous retroviruses

NIH-funded research State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11212150

This study looks at how getting older might increase the chances of developing Alzheimer's and other types of dementia by exploring how age-related changes in the brain can affect certain genes, which could help us understand brain health better and find new ways to treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University New York Stony Brook NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stony Brook, United States)
Project IDNIH-11212150 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how the aging process influences the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It focuses on the interaction between age and neurodegenerative protein changes that may activate certain genetic elements known as retrotransposons and endogenous retroviruses. By studying these interactions, the research aims to understand how they contribute to DNA damage and the decline in brain health. The findings could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of dementia and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic elements in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Stony Brook, 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.
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.