Investigating how chronic stress affects brain aging and Alzheimer's disease through specific neurons.
Official title: Role of AgRP neurons in chronic stress-accelerated brain aging and progression of Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-11080950 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells are affected by long-term stress and getting older, especially in relation to Alzheimer's disease, to find new ways to help improve brain health and potentially develop better treatments for people facing memory and thinking challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $668,212 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG083841-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080950 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing chronic stress or early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those not experiencing chronic stress may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of AgRP neurons in the brain and how they are influenced by chronic stress and aging, particularly in relation to Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand the molecular mechanisms that lead to the silencing of these neurons, which may contribute to increased stress responses and cognitive decline. By examining the interactions between stress, aging, and brain function, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving brain health in aging populations. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and related cognitive impairments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and improving cognitive function in older adults.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the effects of stress on brain function, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Xin-Yun — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Lu, Xin-Yun
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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.