Investigating how immune responses contribute to inflammation in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: cGAS-STING mediated neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10900996 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the immune system and inflammation in the brain might contribute to memory problems in Alzheimer's disease, and it hopes to find new ways to help treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $826,222 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG082361-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900996 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those showing early signs of cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the immune system in Alzheimer's disease, focusing on how chronic inflammation in the brain may lead to cognitive decline. It examines the activation of specific immune pathways, particularly the cGAS-STING pathway, which may be triggered by harmful substances like amyloid-beta. By studying these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover new insights into how neuroinflammation affects Alzheimer's progression and could lead to potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that reduce neuroinflammation and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting neuroinflammation as a therapeutic strategy in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach may be viable.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Zhen — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Zhen
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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.