How aging and Alzheimer's disease affect brain immune cells

Regulation of Microglial Function by Major Histocompatibility Complex I in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-10901383

This study is looking at how brain immune cells called microglia change as we age and how they might help or hurt our brains in Alzheimer's disease, with the goal of finding new ways to support brain health as we get older.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10901383 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in aging and Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on how these cells change with age and how they may initially protect the brain but can become harmful as Alzheimer's progresses. The study examines specific genes and receptors that microglia express, which could help regulate their activity and potentially improve brain health. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for age-related cognitive decline.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance brain health and function in aging individuals and those with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding microglial function in aging and Alzheimer's, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements.

Where this research is happening

Oklahoma City, 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 dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.