Investigating how a specific protein affects brain cell growth in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: The Role of PICALM in Regulating Neurogenesis in Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10997172 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PICALM affects the growth of new brain cells that help with memory in people with Alzheimer's, and it hopes to find new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 16, 2024 |
| Project end | August 15, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F30AG086007-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997172 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or are at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the PICALM protein in the development of Alzheimer's disease, particularly how it influences the growth of new brain cells in the hippocampus, which is crucial for memory. The study involves examining genetic factors and their impact on brain cell function and memory loss in Alzheimer's patients. By using advanced techniques, including human stem cells, the researchers aim to uncover how changes in PICALM may contribute to the disease's progression and cognitive decline. This could lead to new insights into potential treatments for Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance brain cell growth and improve memory function in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic factors related to Alzheimer's, but the specific role of PICALM in neurogenesis is still being explored.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aponte-Cofresi, Luis Alberto — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Aponte-Cofresi, Luis Alberto
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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.