Investigating how different forms of a protein affect Alzheimer's disease after West Nile Virus exposure
Official title: Role of human apolipoprotein E isoforms in long-term effects of West Nile Virus exposure on Alzheimer's disease-related behavioral alteration, cognitive injury, neuroinflammation, and neuropathology
Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-10848463 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the West Nile Virus might affect brain health over time, especially in relation to Alzheimer's disease, and it’s trying to find out how different versions of a protein in our bodies can change the way our brains respond after an infection, which could help us find new ways to prevent or treat Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oregon Health & Science University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $192,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG079158-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10848463 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been exposed to West Nile Virus and are at risk for or have early signs of Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not been exposed to West Nile Virus or do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the long-term effects of West Nile Virus (WNV) on neurological health, particularly focusing on its relationship with Alzheimer's disease. It examines how different isoforms of apolipoprotein E (E2, E3, and E4) influence cognitive function and neuroinflammation following WNV infection. By using mouse models, the study aims to understand the mechanisms by which these protein variants affect brain health and disease progression. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new prevention or treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease linked to viral infections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential new treatments for Alzheimer's disease in patients with a history of West Nile Virus exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of apolipoprotein E isoforms can significantly impact Alzheimer's disease outcomes, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Oregon Health & Science University
Portland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raber, Jacob — Oregon Health & Science University
- Study coordinator: Raber, Jacob
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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.