Investigating how aging-related inflammation affects brain cells and neurodegenerative diseases
Establishing reactive astrocyte memory as a risk factor for aging-related neurodegenerative disease
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called astrocytes react to temporary inflammation as we age, and whether these reactions might lead to a higher risk of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, helping us understand brain health in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Cedars-Sinai Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10785043 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in the development of neurodegenerative diseases as people age. It focuses on how these cells respond to temporary inflammation, such as from infections, and whether these responses create lasting changes that could increase the risk of diseases like Alzheimer's. By examining the molecular and cellular changes in astrocytes, the study aims to understand how these changes might contribute to neurodegenerative conditions over time. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze the epigenetic modifications in astrocytes and their implications for brain health in older adults.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those with a history of neuroinflammation or related health issues.
Not a fit: Patients under 65 years of age or those without any neuroinflammatory conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases in aging populations.
How similar studies have performed: While the concept of reactive astrocyte memory is novel, related research on neuroinflammation and its long-term effects on brain health has shown promising results.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- Cedars-Sinai Medical Center — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccallum, Sarah — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mccallum, Sarah
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.