Investigating how cholesterol levels affect brain cells in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Membrane cholesterol homeostasis in human brain cells derived from iPSCs
Funded at Florida Atlantic University · NIH-10974893 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how cholesterol levels in brain cells might be linked to Alzheimer's disease, especially how certain gene changes can affect these levels, and it invites patients to help by sharing samples or joining related research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida Atlantic University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boca Raton, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $454,271 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AG085620-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974893 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or those carrying the APOE ε4 allele, which is associated with increased risk for the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease or who are not affected by cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between cholesterol homeostasis and Alzheimer's disease by examining human brain cells derived from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). The researchers will explore how mutations in the amyloid precursor protein (APP) influence cholesterol levels in brain cells and contribute to neurodegeneration. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease. Patients may have the opportunity to contribute to this important work by providing samples or participating in related studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting cholesterol regulation in the brain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cholesterol in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida Atlantic University
Boca Raton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Qi — Florida Atlantic University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Qi
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.