Investigating how lipid changes in brain cells relate to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Uncovering Dementia-Related Lipid Alterations and Mechanisms in Astrocytes
Funded at Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-10885573 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fats in the brain might affect memory and thinking in people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, hoping to find new ways to help improve their brain health and daily life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $466,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087400-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10885573 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-degenerative forms of dementia or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of lipids in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It examines how changes in lipid metabolism within astrocytes, a type of brain cell, may affect neuronal health and function. By analyzing the molecular changes in lipids associated with dementia, the study aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets that could improve cognitive and behavioral outcomes for patients. The approach includes detailed investigations of lipid profiles and their interactions with neurons in the context of Alzheimer's pathology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting lipid metabolism may have therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Orr, Anna Goldshmidt — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Orr, Anna Goldshmidt
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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.