How immune cells affect the aging brain

T cells in the aging brain

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-11076764

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the brain change as we get older and how these changes might affect brain health, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding ways to help older adults keep their brains functioning well.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076764 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of immune cells, specifically T cells, in the aging brain and their impact on brain function. It aims to understand how these immune cells infiltrate the brain during aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. By analyzing the subventricular zone of the brain, which is crucial for regeneration, the researchers are using advanced techniques like single cell RNA-sequencing to identify changes in immune cell behavior with age. The ultimate goal is to find ways to restore brain function in older adults.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those over 21 years of age, who may be experiencing cognitive decline or neurodegenerative conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have age-related cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain function and quality of life for older adults suffering from neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the role of immune cells in neurodegeneration, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

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.
Conditions age associated diseaseage associated disorder
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.