Investigating how a type of fat molecule affects aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Role of glial sphingolipid ceramide in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Texas A&m Agrilife Research · NIH-11004975 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called ceramide in the brain might affect aging and Alzheimer's disease, by comparing brain samples from younger and older mice to find out how it impacts memory and thinking, which could help us discover new ways to support brain health as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Texas A&m Agrilife Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Station, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $456,348 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG079320-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11004975 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of ceramide, a type of sphingolipid, in the aging process and its connection to Alzheimer's disease (AD). The study focuses on understanding how changes in ceramide levels in brain cells contribute to cognitive decline and the development of AD. By analyzing brain samples from young and aged mice, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind ceramide accumulation and its effects on brain health. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for age-related cognitive impairments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent cognitive decline in aging individuals and those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of lipid metabolism in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Texas A&m Agrilife Research
College Station, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Jianrong — Texas A&m Agrilife Research
- Study coordinator: Li, Jianrong
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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.