Investigating how microglia affect brain health in alcohol use disorder and Alzheimer's disease
3D Human neurocircuits to determine the role of microglia in AUD and Alzheimer's neuronal pathology
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called microglia might play a role in both alcohol use disorder and Alzheimer's disease, using special 3D brain models to see how alcohol affects brain cell health and function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10999918 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of microglia, a type of immune cell in the brain, in the development of alcohol use disorder (AUD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). By using advanced 3D human neurocircuits, the study aims to understand how alcohol impacts neuronal metabolism and activity, potentially leading to neurodegeneration. The researchers will investigate how proinflammatory microglia may contribute to these changes by altering the metabolism of neurons, which could provide insights into the mechanisms linking AUD and AD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a history of alcohol use disorder or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have a history of alcohol use or who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating alcohol-related brain damage and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that understanding the role of microglia in neurodegenerative diseases can lead to significant advancements, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Chapel Hill, United States
- Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill — Chapel Hill, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coleman, Leon Garland — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Coleman, Leon Garland
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.