Identifying genes affected by herpes simplex virus in brain organoids related to Alzheimer's disease.
Transcriptomics-based identification of cell type specific host genes and gene networks perturbed by HSV-1 in cerebral organoids.
This study is looking at how the herpes virus might change certain genes in brain cells that could be linked to Alzheimer's disease, especially focusing on a gene called APOE e4, to help us understand how infections might play a role in developing Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Worcester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136360 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV-1) affects specific genes in brain organoids that are linked to Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced techniques like induced pluripotent stem cells to create brain-like structures, researchers will analyze how HSV-1 infection alters gene expression and contributes to Alzheimer's pathology. The study aims to uncover the genetic factors that may increase susceptibility to these changes, particularly focusing on the role of the APOE e4 gene variant. This work could lead to a better understanding of the relationship between viral infections and Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic predispositions such as the APOE e4 allele.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a risk for Alzheimer's disease or are not affected by HSV-1 may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into new prevention or treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease by targeting viral influences on gene expression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown a correlation between herpesviruses and Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
Worcester, United States
- Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester — Worcester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lim, Teng-Ting Elaine — Univ of Massachusetts Med Sch Worcester
- Study coordinator: Lim, Teng-Ting 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.