Investigating how stimulating a brain region affects memory and Alzheimer's disease progression
The effects of long-term locus coeruleus stimulation on amyloid/tau pathology, synaptic plasticity, and memory during Alzheimer's disease progression
['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE · NIH-11013374
This study is looking at how stimulating a specific part of the brain might help slow down memory problems in Alzheimer's disease, and while it’s being tested in animals, the hope is that it could lead to new treatments for people with Alzheimer's in the future.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11013374 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the impact of long-term stimulation of the locus coeruleus, a brain region crucial for memory and cognitive function, on the progression of Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced techniques such as chemogenetic manipulation and viral ablation, the study aims to understand how this stimulation influences amyloid and tau pathology, which are key factors in Alzheimer's. Patients may benefit from insights gained about potential new therapeutic targets that could improve memory and cognitive function in Alzheimer's disease. The research will involve animal models, but findings could lead to future human applications.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that improve memory and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting the locus coeruleus for therapeutic interventions in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
NEW YORK, UNITED STATES
- COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE — NEW YORK, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: WANG, QI — COLUMBIA UNIV NEW YORK MORNINGSIDE
- Study coordinator: WANG, QI
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.