Investigating how amyloid precursor protein processing affects Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Ultralong-term single-molecule imaging of amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Broad Institute, INC. · NIH-10987064 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein related to Alzheimer's disease behaves in live human brain cells, using special imaging tools, to help us understand how changes in this protein might affect brain function and lead to the disease, which could help in finding new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Broad Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $211,504 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AG065516-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10987064 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, including those with a family history or genetic predispositions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have any genetic risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of amyloid precursor protein (APP) processing in Alzheimer's disease by using advanced imaging techniques. Researchers will utilize novel photostable nanoparticles to observe the behavior of APP in live human neurons, which may provide insights into how mutations affect neuronal function and contribute to the disease. By tracking the movement and processing of APP at a single-molecule level, the study aims to fill critical gaps in our understanding of Alzheimer's pathology and potential treatment avenues.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the mechanisms of APP processing.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using advanced imaging techniques is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding Alzheimer's disease mechanisms, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Broad Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peng, Chunte — Broad Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Peng, Chunte
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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.