Investigating a new rat model for Alzheimer's disease

Presenilin Knock-in Rat Model of Neurodegeneration

NIH-funded research Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences · NIH-11018521

This study is looking at how certain genetic changes linked to Alzheimer's disease affect brain function in specially bred rats, with the hope that what we learn can help develop new treatments for people with the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11018521 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the mechanisms of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease (AD) using a novel rat model that carries specific mutations associated with familial Alzheimer's. The study aims to characterize how these mutations affect brain function and contribute to the progression of the disease. By utilizing rats, which are more suitable for surgical interventions and behavioral testing, researchers hope to gain insights that could lead to potential therapies. The project will explore the effects of the Presenilin1 mutation on neurodegeneration, providing a platform for future studies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research are individuals with familial Alzheimer's disease or those at high risk due to genetic factors.

Not a fit: Patients with sporadic Alzheimer's disease or those without a genetic predisposition to familial forms of the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease and pave the way for the development of disease-modifying therapies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using animal models to study Alzheimer's disease, indicating that this approach has the potential for meaningful insights.

Where this research is happening

Newark, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.