Investigating how a specific immune molecule affects brain inflammation and degeneration in Alzheimer's disease.
Official title: Role of the microglial immune-oxysterol 25-hydroxycholesterol in mediating neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in the P301S tau transgenic mouse model of Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11076807 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a molecule made by brain immune cells might affect Alzheimer's disease in mice, hoping to find new ways to understand and treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $447,211 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG081419-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11076807 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic factors such as the APOE E4 genotype.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those without any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of 25-hydroxycholesterol, a molecule produced by immune cells in the brain, in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The study uses a mouse model that mimics key features of Alzheimer's to explore how this molecule influences neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. By examining the interactions between microglia, a type of immune cell in the brain, and tau proteins, which are implicated in Alzheimer's, the research aims to uncover new insights into the disease's progression and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting neuroinflammation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cashikar, Anil G — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Cashikar, Anil G
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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.