Investigating how certain brain cells mimic Alzheimer's disease traits
Official title: A unique subpopulation of wild-type neurons recapitulating FAD phenotypes
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10983339 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain healthy brain cells might act like sick ones in people with Alzheimer's, to help us understand what causes the disease and find new ways to help those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $476,477 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG079838-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10983339 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with late-onset sporadic Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease may not directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the similarities between late-onset sporadic Alzheimer's disease and early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease by examining a specific group of healthy neurons that may exhibit characteristics of diseased neurons. The team will utilize advanced techniques, including genetically encoded biosensors, to observe changes in neuron behavior and protein modifications in real-time. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential pathways that contribute to neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into Alzheimer's disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maesako, Masato — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Maesako, Masato
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.