Investigating how a specific protein affects brain cells in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: GPCR-dependent microglial function in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10979161 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called GPR56 in brain cells might affect the progression of Alzheimer's disease, using a special mouse model to see how these cells respond to changes related to the disease, which could help find new treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $115,096 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AG081694-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979161 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those in the early stages of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of GPR56, a protein found in microglial cells, in the progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By using a new mouse model, the study aims to explore how changes in microglial function may influence the development of AD pathology, particularly in relation to amyloid plaques. The research will involve examining the behavior of these brain cells in response to Alzheimer's-related changes, which could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from findings that could lead to new treatments aimed at modifying microglial activity in AD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that modify microglial function to slow or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting microglial function may hold promise for Alzheimer's treatment, suggesting that this approach could be a meaningful advancement in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Beika — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Beika
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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.