Investigating a new model of Alzheimer's Disease using monkeys

Microscopy characterization of a novel tau model of Alzheimer's Disease in monkeys

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11055123

This study is looking at how Alzheimer's disease affects the brain by using specially modified monkeys to learn more about a key problem in the disease, which could help us find better treatments for people with Alzheimer's.

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-11055123 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding Alzheimer's Disease (AD) by using a monkey model to study tau pathology, which is a key feature of the disease. Researchers will perform detailed microscopic analyses on the brains of rhesus macaques that have been genetically modified to express tau mutations associated with dementia. By observing the progression of tau-related cognitive decline and neuroinflammation over time, the study aims to provide insights that could lead to more effective treatments for AD. The findings from this research could help bridge the gap between animal models and human therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's Disease or those showing early signs of cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's Disease or those who do not exhibit tau pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for Alzheimer's Disease, potentially improving the quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research using animal models has shown promise, but this specific approach using monkeys is relatively novel and untested.

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 dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.