How genes and brain differences relate to mood and behavior problems in Alzheimer's across diverse communities
Genetic and neuroanatomical basis of neuropsychiatric symptoms in Alzheimer's disease in populations of diverse ancestry
This project looks at whether genetic differences and brain changes are linked to mood and behavior problems in people with Alzheimer's, with a focus on Black, Hispanic, and other under‑represented groups.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167822 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you or a family member has Alzheimer's, this project combines genetic data, brain scans, medical records, and symptom information from thousands of people of diverse ancestries. Researchers will compare those who have neuropsychiatric symptoms (like agitation, depression, psychosis, and sleep problems) with those who do not to find genes and brain patterns tied to these symptoms. The team uses whole‑genome sequencing and harmonized imaging and clinical datasets assembled across many existing cohorts rather than testing a new drug. While it won't offer immediate new treatments, the findings could point to better ways to predict and eventually treat behavior symptoms, especially in under‑represented groups.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive impairment—especially those of African American, Hispanic, Asian, or other non‑White ancestries—who can contribute genetic samples, imaging, or medical record data.
Not a fit: People without Alzheimer's, or those unwilling or unable to share genetic information, brain imaging, or clinical records, are unlikely to get direct benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to earlier identification and more targeted approaches for treating mood and behavior symptoms in Alzheimer's, particularly for people from diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
How similar studies have performed: Previous genetics and brain‑imaging studies have identified factors related to Alzheimer's risk, but few large studies have linked genetics and neuroanatomy specifically to behavioral symptoms in diverse populations, so this work is partly building on prior results while adding novel, diversity‑focused analyses.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reitz, Christiane — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Reitz, Christiane
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.