Investigating how Alzheimer's disease affects men and women differently
Sex Differences in the Clinical Expression of Alzheimer's Disease Neuropathology and Their Underlying Biological Mechanisms
This study is looking at how Alzheimer's disease affects men and women differently, especially why women might think more clearly at first but then have a tougher time later on, with the goal of finding better ways to diagnose and treat the disease for everyone.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11094784 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the differences in how Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology manifests in men and women, particularly focusing on the relationship between biological markers and clinical symptoms. It aims to understand why women may experience a cognitive advantage in the early stages of AD but face a steeper decline later on. By analyzing data from the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, the study will characterize these sex differences and investigate the underlying neurobiological mechanisms. This could lead to improved diagnostic criteria and treatment strategies tailored to each sex.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment, particularly those who are either male or female.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or cognitive impairment unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and personalized treatment approaches for Alzheimer's disease based on sex differences.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated significant sex differences in Alzheimer's disease pathology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sundermann, Erin Elizabeth — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Sundermann, Erin Elizabeth
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.