Identifying genetic factors linked to dementia
Official title: Genetic dissection of dementia
Funded at University of Texas El Paso · NIH-11082463 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes might affect memory and thinking skills in people with dementia, using fruit flies to help us understand these changes as we age, and it could lead to new ways to help those with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas El Paso NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (El Paso, United States) |
| Project start | May 13, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $153,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R16GM145548-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11082463 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early-stage dementia symptoms, particularly those with executive function impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced dementia or those whose symptoms are not related to executive function deficits may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic risk factors associated with dementia using the fruit fly, Drosophila melanogaster, as a model organism. It focuses on understanding how age-related neurodegeneration affects executive functions, particularly inhibitory control, which is often overlooked in dementia studies. By conducting unbiased genetic screenings, the research aims to uncover the genetic loci that contribute to these cognitive deficits, while also exploring the interaction between genetic and non-genetic risk factors. This innovative approach could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of dementia and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for dementia, particularly in addressing executive function deficits.
How similar studies have gone: While there has been significant research on memory loss in dementia, this approach focusing on inhibitory control as a genetic endophenotype is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas El Paso
El Paso, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Kyung-an — University of Texas El Paso
- Study coordinator: Han, Kyung-an
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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.