How cholesterol regulation affects Alzheimer's disease and brain function

Regulation of cholesterol by y-secretase and ApoE: Implications for AD pathogenesis and synaptic function

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11076774

This study is looking at how cholesterol levels might affect the development of Alzheimer's disease and how it impacts brain connections, with the hope of finding new ways to help people understand and manage their cognitive decline.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076774 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of cholesterol regulation in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its impact on brain synapses. It focuses on the mechanisms by which γ-secretase and ApoE influence the accumulation of amyloid-beta (Aβ), a protein linked to AD. By exploring genetic factors and their effects on lipid metabolism and inflammation, the study aims to uncover new insights into AD pathogenesis. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how cholesterol levels relate to cognitive decline and potential new therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting cholesterol regulation.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of amyloid-beta in Alzheimer's disease, but this specific approach to cholesterol regulation is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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.