Investigating how a specific enzyme variant affects Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Mechanisms of Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10568226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene variant related to Alzheimer's disease affects brain health and memory, using special mice to see if certain medications can help improve these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,231,406 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG080092-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10568226 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or those who carry genetic variants linked to the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Alzheimer's disease who do not have the ACE1 R1279Q variant or related genetic predispositions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of angiotensin converting enzyme (ACE1) in Alzheimer's disease by examining a rare variant associated with the condition. Using genetically modified mice that express this variant, researchers will study how it influences neurodegeneration, memory impairment, and inflammation in the brain. The study aims to understand the mechanisms behind these effects and evaluate potential treatments using ACE inhibitors and receptor blockers. By focusing on specific brain regions affected by this variant, the research seeks to uncover new insights into Alzheimer's pathology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease by targeting the mechanisms associated with the ACE1 variant.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting the renin-angiotensin system can have beneficial effects in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vassar, Robert J — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Vassar, Robert 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.