How brain activity affects DNA repair and aging in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Neuronal activity-responsive DNA repair mechanisms and cognitive aging
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-10978722 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain activity affects the way our cells fix DNA damage, especially in people with Alzheimer's and those experiencing cognitive aging, to find new ways to help keep our minds sharp as we get older.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,516,316 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG084551-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978722 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease who do not exhibit cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neuronal activity influences DNA repair mechanisms in the context of Alzheimer's disease and cognitive aging. It explores the relationship between cognitive stimulation and genomic stability in neurons, particularly focusing on how activity-induced DNA damage occurs and is repaired. By studying the role of specific proteins involved in DNA repair, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could help maintain cognitive function in aging individuals. The approach includes both biochemical analyses and mouse models to understand these processes better.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or mitigating cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between neuronal activity and DNA repair, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Greenberg, Michael Eldon — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Greenberg, Michael Eldon
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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.