Improving cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease using specific cell targets
Official title: Augmenting AXL and MERTK function to restrain cognitive decline and improve health span in mouse models of Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Yale University · NIH-10662677 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how boosting certain molecules in immune cells might help protect against memory loss in Alzheimer's, using mice to see how these changes could lead to new treatments for people with the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,392,160 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG082190-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10662677 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing early cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how enhancing the function of certain molecules in immune cells, specifically microglia, can help prevent cognitive decline associated with Alzheimer's disease. By focusing on the roles of TREM2, AXL, and MERTK, the study aims to understand how these molecules interact and contribute to cognitive health in mouse models of Alzheimer's. The approach involves genetic manipulation in mice to observe changes in cognitive function and the underlying biological processes. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly slow down or prevent cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting microglial molecules for cognitive improvement, suggesting a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rothlin, Carla — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Rothlin, Carla
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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.