Investigating Alzheimer's disease risk in individuals with Down syndrome
Individual Predoctoral Fellowship
This study is looking at why people with Down syndrome are more likely to develop Alzheimer's disease and how certain genes might play a role, with the hope of finding new ways to help prevent or treat Alzheimer's in this group.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11032727 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how individuals with Down syndrome (DS) are at an increased risk for developing Alzheimer's disease (AD) due to the accumulation of amyloid beta (Aβ) peptides and tau proteins in their brains. The study will explore the genetic factors, particularly the APOE4 variant, that contribute to this heightened risk. By examining the unique pathological differences in AD among those with DS, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to cognitive decline in this population. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform future treatments or preventive strategies for AD in individuals with DS.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults with Down syndrome who are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential interventions for Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that genetic factors like APOE4 significantly impact Alzheimer's risk, but this specific investigation into DS-related AD is novel.
Where this research is happening
Aurora, UNITED STATES
- University of Colorado Denver — Aurora, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dooling, Breanna — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Dooling, Breanna
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 below.