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-11146897 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in DNA affect brain cells called astrocytes in Alzheimer's disease, using skin cells from adults to create a model that mimics aging, with the hope of finding new ways to understand and treat this condition.
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 | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $41,228 |
| NIH project number | 3R21AG085428-01S2 |
| Project ID | NIH-11146897 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 or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease or those under 21 years old may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how DNA methylation, a type of epigenetic modification, affects astrocytes, which are non-neuronal cells in the brain, in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study aims to develop a model using adult human fibroblasts converted into astrocytes to mimic age-related changes in DNA and gene expression associated with AD. By examining these changes, researchers hope to uncover new insights into the role of astrocytes in AD progression and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from this research through improved understanding and treatment options for age-related neurological disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing and treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the role of astrocytes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that studying epigenetic modifications in brain cells can provide valuable insights into neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting 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.