How phagocytosis affects amyloid beta-related brain damage

Impact of phagocytosis on amyloid beta-induced pathology

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA · NIH-10724363

This study is looking at how well certain brain cells clear away harmful substances in Alzheimer's disease, which could help us understand the disease better and find new ways to treat it.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF VIRGINIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CHARLOTTESVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10724363 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of phagocytosis, a process where cells clear debris, in the pathology of Alzheimer's disease. It aims to understand how reduced clearance of amyloid-beta aggregates and dead neurons by microglia, a type of brain cell, may influence inflammation and disease progression. By using mouse models with altered phagocytosis capabilities, the study will explore the effects of this process on brain health and the potential for new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and potential new treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to amyloid-beta pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches for Alzheimer's disease that improve brain health and slow disease progression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that manipulating phagocytosis can have beneficial effects in other inflammatory conditions, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.

Where this research is happening

CHARLOTTESVILLE, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.