Investigating how aging-related inflammation affects brain cells and neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Establishing reactive astrocyte memory as a risk factor for aging-related neurodegenerative disease
Funded at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center · NIH-10785043 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $107,865 |
| NIH project number | 1K99AG084864-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10785043 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those with a history of neuroinflammation or related health issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under 65 years of age or those without any neuroinflammatory conditions may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccallum, Sarah — Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Mccallum, Sarah
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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.