Increasing APOE2 levels in the brain to help treat Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Enhanced APOE2 Expression into Brain for Therapeutic Strategy for Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at North Dakota State University · NIH-11089559 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called APOE2 might help protect against Alzheimer's disease by clearing out harmful proteins in the brain, and it's aimed at finding new ways to improve memory and thinking for people living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | North Dakota State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fargo, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $473,142 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG068034-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089559 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease or early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are not experiencing cognitive decline or do not have a family history of Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Alzheimer's disease, a progressive condition that leads to memory loss and cognitive decline. It investigates the role of the APOE2 gene, which has been associated with a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's compared to other gene variants. The approach involves enhancing the expression of APOE2 in the brain, which may help clear harmful amyloid-β proteins that accumulate and contribute to the disease. By using gene therapy techniques, the research aims to develop a new therapeutic strategy to improve cognitive function in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment option that slows or prevents the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using gene therapy approaches for neurodegenerative diseases, but this specific strategy targeting APOE2 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
North Dakota State University
Fargo, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Singh, Jagdish — North Dakota State University
- Study coordinator: Singh, Jagdish
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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.