Investigating genetic and age-related factors in Alzheimer's disease using a microfluidic system
Developing a microfluidic human neurovascular unit system to investigate genetic and age-related risk factors in Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how genes and the environment affect Alzheimer's disease by creating a tiny model of brain blood vessels using human cells, so researchers can better understand what impacts brain health in people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10915139 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how genetic and environmental factors contribute to the progression of Alzheimer's disease by developing a microfluidic system that mimics the human neurovascular unit. Researchers will create human stem cell-derived cells to build a 3D model that simulates brain blood vessels and their interactions. By comparing these models with brain tissue from Alzheimer's patients, they aim to identify key factors that affect brain health and contribute to the disease. This innovative approach utilizes advanced techniques like CRISPR to study specific genetic mutations associated with Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or those showing early signs of cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any genetic predisposition to the condition may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into Alzheimer's disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using similar microfluidic systems to study neurological conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia University Health Sciences — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sproul, Andrew Alexander — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Sproul, Andrew Alexander
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.