Investigating a genetic factor's role in Alzheimer's disease and microglial response
Official title: Role of a novel risk loci HAVCR2 of late-onset Alzheimer's disease in the regulation of microglial response in neurodegeneration
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11021023 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene related to late-onset Alzheimer's disease affects brain cells that help clean up harmful substances, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $813,314 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG080992-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11021023 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with late-onset Alzheimer's disease or those at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia unrelated to the HAVCR2 genetic factor may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the HAVCR2 gene, linked to late-onset Alzheimer's disease, affects the behavior of microglial cells in the brain. Researchers will explore how this gene influences microglial activation and their ability to clear amyloid plaques, which are associated with neurodegeneration. By studying both human and mouse models, the project aims to uncover the mechanisms by which HAVCR2 regulates microglial function, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the brain's immune response to Alzheimer's disease, potentially slowing its progression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting similar genetic factors in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kuchroo, Vijay K. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Kuchroo, Vijay K.
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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.