How midlife alcohol use affects dementia risk in twins
Official title: Implications of midlife alcohol use for risk of dementia in male and female twins: Unique contributions and interactions with APOE4
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10885504 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how drinking alcohol in middle age might affect the chances of getting Alzheimer's and related dementias later on, especially in twins, to see how both genes and drinking habits play a role.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 23, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $468,534 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087486-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10885504 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include male and female twins who have a history of alcohol consumption and are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a history of alcohol consumption or those without a familial history of dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the impact of alcohol consumption during midlife on the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease and related dementias (ADRD) later in life, particularly focusing on male and female twins. By analyzing data from over 32,000 twins, the study aims to understand how alcohol use interacts with genetic factors, specifically the APOE gene, which is known to influence dementia risk. Participants will provide information about their alcohol consumption patterns and undergo assessments for ADRD, allowing researchers to explore both genetic and environmental influences on dementia risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and prevention strategies for dementia, particularly related to alcohol consumption.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that modifiable risk factors like alcohol consumption can significantly impact dementia risk, suggesting that this study's approach is both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Luczak, Susan E — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Luczak, Susan E
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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.