How young blood factors influence brain immune cells in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Regulation of microglial function by blood-borne factors
Funded at Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai · NIH-10900443 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein found in young blood might help brain immune cells work better, which could lead to new ways to treat Alzheimer's disease and improve brain health as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $47,374 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AG079604-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900443 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without any cognitive impairment may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how factors found in young blood can affect the function of immune cells in the brain, specifically in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study focuses on a protein called TIMP2, which decreases with age and may play a role in rejuvenating brain cells. By examining how TIMP2 influences microglial cells—immune cells that respond to damage and debris in the brain—the research aims to uncover new mechanisms that could help combat the effects of aging and AD. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to novel treatments targeting microglial function in Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance brain health and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in rejuvenating age-sensitive organs through young blood factors, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hemmer, Brittany Marie — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Hemmer, Brittany Marie
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.