Investigating how RNA changes in the brain relate to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Characterizing Spatial Variations in RNA Isoform Expression with Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11049832 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in RNA in specific parts of the brain might be linked to Alzheimer's disease, helping us understand more about the disease and its effects on brain cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $423,994 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG091356-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049832 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 at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or neurological disorders unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of alternative RNA splicing in Alzheimer's disease by examining how these molecular changes occur in specific brain regions affected by the disease. Using advanced techniques like single-nucleus cDNA and long-read RNA sequencing, the study aims to create a detailed map of RNA isoform expression at the single-cell level in the inferior frontal gyrus, a key area for Alzheimer's pathology. By integrating these findings with immunofluorescence and H&E staining, the research seeks to uncover the relationship between RNA changes and the presence of amyloid plaques and neurofibrillary tangles, which are hallmarks of Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the identification of new therapeutic targets and strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of integrating single-cell RNA sequencing with spatial mapping in Alzheimer's is novel, similar methodologies have shown promise in other neurological research.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gregory, Simon G — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Gregory, Simon G
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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.