Investigating DNA changes in brain cells related to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: DNA methylation signatures of Alzheimer's disease in aged astrocytes
Funded at University of Texas San Antonio · NIH-10807864 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA affect brain cells called astrocytes in people with Alzheimer's disease, using skin cells to create a model that helps us understand how aging impacts these cells and their role in the disease, which could lead to new ways to help treat Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas San Antonio NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2023 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $410,290 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG085428-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10807864 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without any cognitive impairment may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how DNA methylation, a type of genetic modification, affects astrocytes, which are non-neuronal cells in the brain, in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to develop a model that mimics aging in brain cells by converting skin cells into astrocytes, allowing researchers to observe age-related changes in DNA and gene expression. By examining these changes, the research seeks to uncover the role of astrocytes in the progression of Alzheimer's disease and how they may contribute to the disease's symptoms. This approach could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the underlying mechanisms in astrocytes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that studying DNA methylation in brain cells can provide valuable insights into neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas San Antonio
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carless, Melanie — University of Texas San Antonio
- Study coordinator: Carless, Melanie
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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.