Investigating how astrocytes contribute to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Astrocytic Na/H exchanger in AD astrogliosis
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10899976 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called NHE1 and certain brain cells might contribute to Alzheimer's disease, and it hopes to find out if blocking NHE1 can help protect the brain and slow down memory loss in people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31AG084260-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10899976 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those showing early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of reactive astrocytes and a specific protein called Na+/H+ exchanger 1 (NHE1) in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By studying mouse models of AD, the researchers aim to determine if inhibiting NHE1 can reduce the harmful effects of astrogliosis, which is a key early marker of AD. The study will involve examining brain tissues from both human and mouse models to explore the relationship between NHE1 activity and the progression of AD. The ultimate goal is to identify potential therapeutic strategies that could slow down or prevent cognitive decline in patients with AD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and improve cognitive function in patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting astrocytic functions in other neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
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University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Collier, Jenelle Monet — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Collier, Jenelle Monet
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.