Investigating how specific neurons in the entorhinal cortex are affected by Alzheimer's disease.
Official title: Assessing Neuronal Vulnerability in the Entorhinal Cortex due to Alzheimer's Disease Pathology
Funded at Winifred Masterson Burke Med Res Inst · NIH-11259764 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in a part of the brain called the entorhinal cortex might be affected in Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find out if these cells are too active because of other cells being overactive or underactive; by testing special mice, the researchers hope to learn more about how these changes happen and how they might help improve memory problems related to Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Winifred Masterson Burke Med Res Inst NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (White Plains, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $378,793 |
| NIH project number | 7R21AG089715-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11259764 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with early symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the vulnerability of specific neurons in the entorhinal cortex (EC) related to Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced techniques such as optogenetics and chemogenetics, the study aims to identify whether hyperexcitability in these neurons is caused by increased activity in excitatory neurons or decreased activity in inhibitory neurons. The research will involve testing genetically modified mice to observe changes in neuronal behavior and potential reversals of cognitive deficits. This approach may provide insights into the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or reverse cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding neuronal hyperexcitability in Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Winifred Masterson Burke Med Res Inst
White Plains, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hussaini, S. Abid — Winifred Masterson Burke Med Res Inst
- Study coordinator: Hussaini, S. Abid
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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.