Investigating how aging affects motor skills and brain function in Alzheimer's disease
Behavioral, molecular, and functional dissection of corticospinal neurons in motor performance deficits of physiological and pathological aging
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL · NIH-10908262
This study is looking at how aging and Alzheimer's disease affect our ability to move and use our hands, hoping to find ways to help improve movement for people dealing with these changes.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10908262 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the decline of motor functions, such as fine motor skills, in both healthy aging and Alzheimer's disease (AD). It aims to understand the differences and similarities in motor deficits associated with physiological aging and those that precede cognitive symptoms in AD. By focusing on corticospinal neurons, which are crucial for voluntary motor control, the study seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of motor decline. This could lead to new insights into potential treatments for improving motor function in affected individuals.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing motor performance deficits due to aging or Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with motor function issues unrelated to aging or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve motor skills and overall quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease and age-related motor decline.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on motor decline in aging, this research uniquely focuses on the role of corticospinal neurons in both healthy and pathological aging, making it a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WINTER, CARLA — HARVARD MEDICAL SCHOOL
- Study coordinator: WINTER, CARLA
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 below.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease