Investigating how metabolic processes affect neuron vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease.
Official title: Metabolic Mechanisms in Locus Coeruleus Neuron Vulnerability in Neurodegenerative Disease
Funded at Brown University · NIH-11099836 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells start to break down in Alzheimer's and similar diseases, using a special mouse model to learn more about what makes these cells vulnerable, which could help us understand how these conditions develop over time.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $706,835 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG087455-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099836 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 early symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative disorders not related to Alzheimer's or those who are not experiencing early symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the early degeneration of locus coeruleus neurons in Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders. By studying a specific mouse model that lacks the mitochondrial enzyme GPT2, researchers aim to uncover the metabolic mechanisms that contribute to neuron vulnerability. The approach includes examining how these mechanisms operate across different stages of life and in response to environmental factors. This could lead to insights into the progression of Alzheimer's and similar conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuron vulnerability in neurodegenerative diseases, but this specific approach using GPT2 is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morrow, Eric M — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Morrow, Eric M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Digital twins of the spleen to help design better therapies for sickle cell disease
A computer-driven replica of the spleen is being developed to speed up creating safer and more effective treatments for people with sickle cell disease.
-
Understanding how heavy drinking and anxiety relate in emerging adults
This grant studies how heavy alcohol use and anxiety symptoms interact in young adults (ages 18–34) and what biological stress markers might reveal about that relationship.
-
Population Studies Center at Brown: research to improve health and well-being of people, including children and those affected by HIV/AIDS
A Brown University center researchers study how social and environmental factors shape health, with a focus on children, families, HIV, and health disparities.
-
Role of ER membrane contact sites in synapse formation and plasticity
A study from Brown University will explore how connections between cell parts help neurons form and adapt synapses, which may shed light on degenerative brain disorders.
-
Public Use Data on Mexican and Central American Immigration (health data project)
A national study will collect and share health survey data from Mexican and Central American immigrants to understand how health changes over time in this population.
-
Impact of Virtual Doula Support on Birth Outcomes in Rural Communities
A study to see if virtual doula support improves birth outcomes for people giving birth in rural areas.
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.