How tiny brain fat droplets change in Alzheimer's and aging using high-precision imaging
Defining lipid droplet homeostasis in Alzheimer's disease and aging with high molecular specificity using mass spectrometry imaging and isomer resolved lipidomics
Using advanced mass-spectrometry imaging, researchers are mapping tiny fat droplets and specific brain lipids in aging and Alzheimer's to learn how these changes relate to disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11307578 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers will use high-resolution mass spectrometry imaging and isomer-resolved lipidomics to make detailed maps of lipid molecules and lipid droplets in brain tissue from older adults and people with Alzheimer's disease. They will compare lipid patterns in healthy aging versus Alzheimer’s-affected brains at regional, cellular, and organelle levels. The project combines analyses of human brain tissue with complementary models to pinpoint specific lipid changes linked to disease. Findings are intended to uncover lipid signatures that could guide future biomarkers or therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Alzheimer's disease, those with mild cognitive impairment, older adults, and individuals willing to donate brain tissue or other biospecimens are the most relevant candidates.
Not a fit: People without Alzheimer’s-related conditions or those seeking immediate treatment changes are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify lipid markers or pathways that help detect Alzheimer's earlier or point to new treatment targets.
How similar studies have performed: Related spatial lipidomics studies have found disease-linked lipid changes in brain tissue, but applying isomer-resolved lipidomics to lipid droplets in Alzheimer's is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- University of Maryland Baltimore — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scott, Alison J — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Scott, Alison J
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.