How sex differences in immune function affect the risk of Alzheimer's disease and heart-related conditions.
Impact of sex differences in immune function on shared risk for cardiometabolic disorder & Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how differences between men and women in immune health might affect the chances of developing Alzheimer's disease and heart-related issues as people reach middle age, and it's inviting 240 participants aged 50 to 75 to help uncover these connections through various tests.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10883926 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how differences between sexes in immune function may influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cardiometabolic disorders (CMD) in midlife. The study will recruit 240 participants aged 50-75, equally divided by sex, to explore the shared biological pathways linking CMD and AD. Participants will undergo a variety of assessments, including MRI scans, cognitive tests, and blood tests to analyze genetic and immune factors. The goal is to better understand how these factors contribute to the risk of AD, particularly in women, who are disproportionately affected.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 50-75, both men and women, who are at high or low risk for Alzheimer's disease based on genetic factors and cardiometabolic health.
Not a fit: Patients outside the age range of 50-75 or those without any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease or cardiometabolic disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved prevention strategies and treatments for Alzheimer's disease, particularly for women at higher risk.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding sex differences in disease pathology can lead to significant advancements in treatment and prevention strategies, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldstein, Jill M — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Goldstein, Jill M
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 below.