Investigating how early tau pathology affects brain cell interactions
Probing the Toxic Effects of Early Stage Tau Pathology on Microglial Modulation of Neuronal Circuits Using iPSC Hippocampal Assembloids
This study is looking at how certain brain cells interact with each other in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease, using special cells from patients to help us understand what happens as the disease progresses, which could lead to new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11039755 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the interactions between microglia, a type of brain cell, and neurons in the context of early tau pathology, which is associated with Alzheimer's disease. Using advanced techniques, the study will create models from patient-derived cells to observe how changes in neurons influence microglial behavior and vice versa. The goal is to understand the mechanisms that drive disease progression, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. Patients' induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) will be utilized to create these models, allowing for a detailed examination of cellular interactions in a controlled environment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with genetic predispositions to Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with MAPT mutations.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without genetic risk factors for tau pathology may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for Alzheimer's disease by targeting the interactions between microglia and neurons.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding microglial-neuron interactions in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rexach, Jessica E — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Rexach, Jessica E
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 below.