How mitochondrial lipids and APOE genes affect brain aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Impact of Mitochondrial Lipidomic Dynamics and its Interaction with APOE Isoforms on Brain Aging and Alzheimers Disease
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11058369 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fats in our brain cells and a specific gene related to Alzheimer's might affect brain health as we age, and it invites people to help by sharing samples or taking part in tests about their thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $638,436 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG081426-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11058369 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or genetic predispositions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of mitochondrial lipids and their interaction with different forms of the APOE gene in the aging brain and Alzheimer's disease. By analyzing lipid profiles in brain cells, the study aims to understand how these factors contribute to neurodegeneration. The approach includes advanced imaging techniques and multi-omics studies to explore lipid-related pathways and their effects on brain health. Patients may be involved in providing biological samples or participating in assessments related to their cognitive health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into Alzheimer's disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets for prevention or treatment.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lipid pathways in Alzheimer's disease, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Ling — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Li, Ling
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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.