Investigating how sex genes affect women's risk of Alzheimer's disease
Official title: The inactive X: discovering sex genes that influence female vulnerability to Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10471087 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into why women might be more at risk for Alzheimer's disease than men, focusing on how certain genes on the X chromosome and hormones could play a role, with the goal of finding new ways to prevent and treat Alzheimer's in women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $1,512,000 |
| NIH project number | 1DP2AG082342-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10471087 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are women, particularly those who are post-menopausal or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Men and women who do not have a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the biological mechanisms that may explain why women are more vulnerable to Alzheimer's disease compared to men. It focuses on the role of the X chromosome and how certain genes on this chromosome may influence the development of neurodegenerative conditions. The study examines the effects of sex hormones and the unique genetic makeup of women, particularly how some genes escape inactivation on the X chromosome. By understanding these factors, the research aims to uncover potential targets for prevention and treatment of Alzheimer's in women.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease specifically in women.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding sex differences in neurodegenerative diseases can lead to significant advancements in treatment, suggesting this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts General Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Buckley, Rachel Frances — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Buckley, Rachel Frances
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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.