How the APOE4 gene changes immune proteins in the brain fluid linked to Alzheimer's
APOE4 dependent regulation of CSF Complement Pathway Activation in the development of Alzheimer's Disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · DUKE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11308212
Researchers will compare spinal-fluid immune proteins in people with and without the APOE4 gene to find out whether APOE4 raises immune activity that could harm brain connections and increase Alzheimer’s risk.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | DUKE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (DURHAM, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11308212 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
If you join, researchers will determine your APOE genetic status and collect cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) using a lumbar puncture. They will measure proteins of the complement immune pathway in CSF and compare levels between people with one or two copies of APOE4 and those without APOE4. The team will look for patterns that suggest APOE4 drives immune activity that can remove synapses and contribute to Alzheimer’s changes. Results aim to link a known genetic risk (APOE4) with measurable immune changes in the fluid around the brain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults willing to have genetic testing and a lumbar puncture, including older people at increased risk for Alzheimer’s and those who may carry the APOE4 gene, are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People unwilling to undergo CSF collection or those seeking immediate treatment or symptom relief are unlikely to receive direct benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal a biological link that helps explain APOE4-related Alzheimer’s risk and point to new targets to prevent or slow disease.
How similar studies have performed: Some lab and animal studies have suggested APOE4 can affect complement activity, but direct evidence from human CSF is limited and this approach is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
DURHAM, UNITED STATES
- DUKE UNIVERSITY — DURHAM, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PRIVRATSKY, JAMIE R — DUKE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: PRIVRATSKY, JAMIE R
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.
Conditions: Acquired brain injury