Investigating how amyloid deposits affect brain plasticity in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Cell-specific plasticity pathway dysfunction as a result of amyloid deposition in Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at VA Boston Health Care System · NIH-11003962 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how sticky proteins in the brain, called amyloid deposits, affect memory and thinking in veterans with Alzheimer's, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Boston Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01BX006131-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11003962 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include veterans diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing cognitive decline associated with amyloid pathology.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or those not affected by amyloid-related cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how amyloid deposits in the brain contribute to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease, particularly in veterans. It aims to identify specific cellular changes and dysfunctions in brain pathways that are crucial for learning and memory. By examining the relationship between amyloid accumulation and alterations in neuronal function, the study seeks to uncover potential targets for future therapies that could restore cognitive function. The research employs advanced techniques to analyze brain circuits and their ability to adapt over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of amyloid in cognitive dysfunction, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Boston Health Care System
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smirnakis, Stelios Manolis — VA Boston Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Smirnakis, Stelios Manolis
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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.