How brain cells protect against Alzheimer's disease

Mechanisms of axonal protection by astrocytes and microglia inAlzheimer disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-10993210

This study is looking at how certain brain cells, called microglia and astrocytes, can help protect against Alzheimer's disease by interacting with harmful substances in the brain, and it aims to find ways to boost their protective abilities to slow down or prevent the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorYALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10993210 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the roles of microglia and astrocytes, two types of brain cells, in protecting against Alzheimer's disease. The team aims to understand how these cells interact with amyloid beta deposits, which are harmful aggregates associated with the disease. By using advanced imaging techniques and manipulating these cells in living models, the researchers will explore how to enhance the protective functions of these cells to potentially slow down or prevent neurodegeneration. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting these cellular interactions.

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 showing early signs of cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to amyloid beta accumulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect brain cells and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the protective roles of glial cells in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NEW HAVEN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.