How sex-linked genes and APOE ε4 affect Alzheimer's risk
Dissecting the role of sex-linked genes and APOE e4 risk in AD
This project looks at how genes on the sex chromosomes together with the APOE ε4 gene change Alzheimer’s disease risk and progression in men and women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126839 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research uses lab-grown human brain cells (hiPSCs) and donated Alzheimer’s brain tissue to study why men and women experience Alzheimer’s differently. Scientists will map gene and protein activity across the genome, with special attention to genes on the X and Y chromosomes that may alter immune responses in the brain. They will test how those sex-linked genes interact with APOE ε4 to drive neuroinflammation and disease processes in different brain cell types. The goal is to link molecular findings to patterns of disease onset and progression in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would include people with Alzheimer’s disease—especially those who carry the APOE ε4 allele—or individuals willing to donate blood, skin, or brain tissue for research-derived cell and tissue studies.
Not a fit: People with non‑Alzheimer’s forms of dementia, those without APOE ε4 who are seeking immediate treatment changes, or individuals unable to provide samples are less likely to get direct benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these findings could explain sex-specific mechanisms in Alzheimer’s and point to more personalized ways to predict or treat the disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has linked APOE ε4 and sex to Alzheimer’s risk, but using human iPSC models and focused analysis of sex‑chromosome genes is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young, Jessica Elaine — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Young, Jessica Elaine
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.