Investigating how a protein affects brain cell interactions in Alzheimer's and related diseases
Official title: ApoE, lipid and immune mechanisms of human neurons and glia
Funded at Mclean Hospital · NIH-10590145 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called APOE affects brain cells and their support cells when there are issues with fats and inflammation, which can happen in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, to help find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mclean Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Belmont, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,284,296 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG080636-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10590145 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or Lewy body dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to lipid metabolism or inflammation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of apolipoprotein E (APOE) in the interactions between neurons and glial cells, particularly in the context of lipid imbalances and inflammation associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and Lewy body dementia. By utilizing advanced human stem cell models, the study aims to uncover how APOE influences cellular responses to these stressors, which could lead to better insights into the mechanisms of brain degeneration. The research will explore how disruptions in lipid transport and inflammatory responses contribute to the progression of these diseases, potentially identifying new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of APOE in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Mclean Hospital
Belmont, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Isacson, Ole — Mclean Hospital
- Study coordinator: Isacson, Ole
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.