How alcohol affects the serotonin system and Alzheimer's disease progression
Alcohol and the Serotonin System in the Progression of Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how drinking too much alcohol might affect brain health and worsen conditions like Alzheimer's disease, using mice to see how alcohol impacts sleep and brain changes related to memory.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10893995 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of chronic alcohol consumption on the serotonin system and its potential role in the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study will utilize advanced techniques such as EEG and fiber photometry in mice with human tau pathology to explore how alcohol may disrupt sleep and exacerbate cognitive decline. Additionally, it will examine the effects of alcohol on microglial activation and the spread of tau pathology in the brain, aiming to uncover new links between alcohol use disorders and neurodegeneration. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to provide insights into how alcohol may influence Alzheimer's disease progression.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of alcohol use disorders who are also experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use or who are not experiencing cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or mitigating the effects of alcohol on Alzheimer's disease progression.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific link between alcohol, serotonin, and Alzheimer's disease is less explored, related studies have shown that alcohol can impact neurodegeneration and cognitive function, suggesting potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
Iowa City, United States
- University of Iowa — Iowa City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Marcinkiewcz, Catherine Anne — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Marcinkiewcz, Catherine Anne
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.