Investigating a monkey model of Alzheimer's disease and its tau pathology

Tau based Monkey model of Alzheimer's Disease; Structure and Function

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-10870117

This study is creating a monkey model to help us learn more about Alzheimer's disease and its effects, which could lead to better treatments for people with the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10870117 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a monkey model to better understand Alzheimer's disease (AD) and its tau pathology. By using nonhuman primates, which share closer genetic and physiological traits with humans, the researchers aim to create a model that accurately replicates the disease's characteristics. The study involves infusing a virus that expresses a tau mutation known to cause dementia in humans into the entorhinal cortex of the monkeys. This approach is expected to provide insights that could lead to more effective treatments for AD.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those interested in advancements in treatment options.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those not diagnosed with any form of dementia may not receive direct benefits from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to breakthroughs in understanding and treating Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving outcomes for millions affected by the condition.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using nonhuman primate models has shown promise in understanding neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Davis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementia
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.