Investigating how sex differences affect Alzheimer's disease at the cellular level
Single-cell epigenomic and trancriptional dissection of sex-specific differences in Alzheimer’s Disease
This study is looking at how Alzheimer's disease affects men and women differently by exploring the genes and changes in brain cells, with the goal of finding better ways to treat the disease based on these differences.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11089329 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the differences in Alzheimer's disease (AD) between sexes by examining the molecular mechanisms that contribute to variations in risk, progression, and severity. Using advanced techniques like single-cell RNA sequencing and epigenomic profiling, the study aims to create detailed maps of genetic and epigenetic changes in brain cells from both human and mouse samples. By analyzing these data, researchers hope to identify specific genes and pathways that drive sex-related differences in AD. The findings could lead to a better understanding of how to tailor treatments based on sex-specific factors.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those who are male or female, as well as healthy participants for comparative analysis.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurodegenerative disorders unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective, personalized treatments for Alzheimer's disease that take into account sex-specific differences.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that understanding sex differences in neurodegenerative diseases can lead to significant advancements in treatment strategies, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Cambridge, United States
- Massachusetts Institute of Technology — Cambridge, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kellis, Manolis — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Kellis, Manolis
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.