Investigating how reactive astrocytes affect synapses in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Reactive Astrogliosis and the Tripartite Synapse in Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-11052689 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells, called reactive astrocytes, affect the health of connections between brain cells in people with Alzheimer's disease, to help find new ways to protect memory and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $452,550 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087072-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052689 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 exhibiting early signs of cognitive decline.
✕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 focuses on understanding the role of reactive astrocytes in Alzheimer's disease, particularly how they influence synaptic health. The study examines the balance between harmful and protective effects of these cells in the context of amyloid-beta and tau protein toxicity. By analyzing the upregulation of a specific protein called GFAP in reactive astrocytes, the research aims to clarify their contribution to synaptic loss and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving synaptic function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preserving cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Serrano-Pozo, Alberto — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Serrano-Pozo, Alberto
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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.