Investigating gene expression changes in individuals with Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Allelic Expression Imbalance in Trisomy 21
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11126437 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how having an extra chromosome 21 in people with Down syndrome might affect their genes and lead to memory problems like those seen in Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding ways to better understand and address these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $780,000 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS142814-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11126437 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those showing early signs of cognitive decline or Alzheimer's-like symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not exhibit cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the extra chromosome 21 in individuals with Down syndrome affects gene expression and contributes to cognitive decline similar to Alzheimer's disease. By examining the relationship between DNA copy number and gene expression, the study aims to identify specific genes that may be involved in these disease processes. The researchers will explore epigenetic factors that influence gene activity, particularly in regions of the genome known to be sensitive to dosage changes. This work could provide insights into the mechanisms behind the early onset of Alzheimer's symptoms in people with Down syndrome.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating cognitive decline in individuals with Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding gene expression changes related to Alzheimer's disease, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Thayer, Mathew J — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Thayer, Mathew J
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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.