How problems in cellular recycling affect communication between neurons and glial cells in Alzheimer's disease

Molecular impact of endolysosomal dysfunction on neuron-glia communication pathways

NIH-funded research Boston Children's Hospital · NIH-11031936

This study is looking at how problems with a recycling process in brain cells affect communication between nerve cells and support cells in Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find ways to slow down or prevent the disease by understanding these changes better.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston Children's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11031936 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how disruptions in a cellular recycling process, known as retromer-dependent cargo recognition, impact communication pathways between neurons and glial cells in Alzheimer's disease. By using genetically engineered stem cell-derived models, the study aims to understand how these disruptions lead to inflammation in glial cells, which are crucial for brain health. The research will also explore the effects of specific genetic mutations on microglial function in aging mice, providing insights into the early stages of dementia. This approach could help identify potential therapeutic targets for slowing down or preventing Alzheimer's disease progression.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, including those with a family history or genetic predispositions.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any genetic risk factors for the condition may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for delaying or preventing the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cellular processes related to Alzheimer's disease, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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 Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.