Investigating how MMP9 affects brain safety during Alzheimer’s immunotherapy

Establishing the role of MMP9 in amyloid-immunotherapy-induced ARIA

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10850128

This study is looking into the safety of new Alzheimer's treatments that target amyloid, focusing on how they might cause brain issues like swelling and small bleeding, to help make these therapies safer for people with Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10850128 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the safety concerns associated with anti-amyloid immunotherapies for Alzheimer's disease, such as aducanamab, donanemab, and lecanemab. It aims to understand how these treatments may lead to brain abnormalities known as ARIA, which can cause microhemorrhages and edema. By utilizing advanced imaging technologies and humanized mouse models, the study will investigate the role of the enzyme MMP9 in these adverse effects, potentially revealing critical insights into the mechanisms behind ARIA. The findings could help improve the safety profile of these promising therapies for Alzheimer's patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Alzheimer’s disease who may be considered for anti-amyloid immunotherapy.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or those not eligible for anti-amyloid therapies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the safety of Alzheimer’s immunotherapies, making them more acceptable for widespread clinical use.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated safety concerns with anti-amyloid therapies, but this specific investigation into MMP9's role is novel and has not been extensively tested.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.