Investigating how the mevalonate pathway affects ApoE in astrocytes related to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Mevalonate Pathway Regulation of Astrocyte ApoE
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10992651 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific process in the body affects a protein called ApoE, which is connected to Alzheimer's disease, and aims to find ways to lower harmful substances linked to the disease and help brain cells survive better, using mouse models to see how different versions of ApoE respond to changes in this process.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $411,774 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG080773-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10992651 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease, particularly those carrying the ApoE4 allele.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without any genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the mevalonate pathway in regulating the release and lipid content of ApoE, a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease. By manipulating this pathway, the researchers aim to reduce the production of amyloid-beta, a key factor in Alzheimer's pathology, and improve neuron survival. The study will involve experiments using mouse models to observe how different ApoE isoforms behave in response to changes in the mevalonate pathway. This could lead to new strategies for altering the risk associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that reduce the risk or severity of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways to influence neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferris, Heather — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Ferris, Heather
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.