How estrogen affects microRNAs related to Alzheimer's disease in women
Official title: Sex-specific regulation of microRNAs in Alzheimer Disease
Funded at Loyola University Chicago · NIH-11001223 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a hormone called 17β-estradiol affects tiny molecules in the brain that might help explain why women are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease after menopause, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent or treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Loyola University Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Maywood, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $588,031 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG082135-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001223 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are postmenopausal women who are at risk for or experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not postmenopausal or who do not have Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the hormone 17β-estradiol in regulating microRNA levels in the brain, particularly focusing on how these processes differ between men and women. The study aims to uncover the biological mechanisms that may explain why women are at a higher risk for Alzheimer's disease, especially after menopause. By examining how estrogen influences microRNA stability and expression across different ages, the research seeks to fill a critical gap in understanding Alzheimer's disease risk factors. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to targeted therapies or preventive strategies based on hormonal influences.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease in women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that hormonal influences can affect microRNA expression, suggesting that this research could build on established findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Loyola University Chicago
Maywood, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pak, Toni R. — Loyola University Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pak, Toni R.
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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.