Investigating how APOE affects the processing of alpha-synuclein in dementia
Official title: Role of APOE in endosomal processing of alpha-synuclein
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10739682 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called APOE affects a protein linked to dementia, which could help us understand why some people with Lewy body disease and Alzheimer's experience memory problems, and it might lead to new treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,658,363 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG083753-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10739682 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Lewy body disease or Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with the APOE4 genetic variant.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any form of dementia or those who do not carry the APOE4 variant may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the APOE gene in the processing of alpha-synuclein, a protein linked to dementia, particularly in Lewy body disease and Alzheimer's disease. By studying how different variants of the APOE gene influence the aggregation of alpha-synuclein, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to cognitive decline in patients. The approach includes using mouse models to observe the effects of the APOE4 variant on alpha-synuclein aggregation and related symptoms. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for treating dementia-related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating dementia in patients with specific genetic profiles.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown a strong link between APOE variants and dementia risk, indicating that this research builds on established findings in the field.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Davis, Albert a — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Davis, Albert a
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.