Increasing progranulin levels in a brain model of Frontotemporal Dementia
Upregulation of progranulin in a human iPSC-derived neurovascular model of GRN-associated Frontotemporal Dementia
['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER · NIH-10789724
This study is looking at a protein called progranulin that’s connected to Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD) to better understand how different brain cells are involved in the disease and to find ways to boost progranulin levels, which could lead to new treatments that help people with FTD.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R21'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WORCESTER, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10789724 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of progranulin, a protein linked to Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD), in a human brain model created from induced pluripotent stem cells. The study aims to understand how different cell types contribute to the disease and to explore a method for increasing progranulin levels in these cells. By focusing on the blood-brain barrier and its associated cells, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies that could help mitigate the effects of FTD. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the disease mechanisms and potential treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with familial Frontotemporal Dementia, particularly those with known mutations in the progranulin gene.
Not a fit: Patients with non-genetic forms of dementia or those without a family history of Frontotemporal Dementia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve outcomes for patients with Frontotemporal Dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting progranulin levels in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
WORCESTER, UNITED STATES
- UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER — WORCESTER, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ALMEIDA, SANDRA — UNIV OF MASSACHUSETTS MED SCH WORCESTER
- Study coordinator: ALMEIDA, SANDRA
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome