Investigating how certain brain cells behave in Alzheimer's disease models
Official title: Functional Alterations of Parvalbumin Interneurons Contributing to Abnormal Network Activity in Alzheimer's Disease Mouse Models
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11026411 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells, called parvalbumin interneurons, might not work properly in Alzheimer's disease, and by using mice, researchers hope to learn more about the ups and downs in thinking that people with Alzheimer's experience, which could help find new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $244,012 |
| NIH project number | 5R00AG062776-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11026411 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those exhibiting early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or cognitive impairments unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of parvalbumin interneurons in the brain and how their dysfunction contributes to abnormal brain activity in Alzheimer's disease. By studying mouse models of Alzheimer's, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind cognitive fluctuations experienced by patients. The approach involves examining the electrical activity of these specific brain cells and their impact on overall brain function, which may lead to new insights into the disease's progression and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain activity in Alzheimer's models, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Keran — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Ma, Keran
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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.