Investigating a molecule that helps maintain brain health to prevent Alzheimer's disease
Official title: miR-29: A brain homeostasis molecule for Alzheimer’s disease prevention
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11001209 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a molecule called miR-29 helps keep our brains healthy as we age, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, and by testing it in mice, researchers hope to find new ways to protect the brain from this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $570,149 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG082140-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001209 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults over 21 years old who are at risk for or concerned about Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other severe neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a specific molecule, miR-29, in maintaining the health of the brain as it matures. Researchers have found that miR-29 levels are reduced in patients with Alzheimer's disease, which may contribute to the disease's progression. By studying mice with altered miR-29 levels, the team aims to uncover how this molecule affects brain function and its potential to prevent neurodegeneration. The findings could lead to new strategies for protecting the brain against Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventive treatments for Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving brain health and longevity for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting similar molecular pathways can lead to significant advancements in understanding and potentially treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deshmukh, Mohanish P — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Deshmukh, Mohanish P
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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.