Investigating how toxic forms of amyloid beta affect neurons in Alzheimer's disease
Heterogeneity in Toxicity of Oligomeric Amyloid Beta and Neuronal Resilience in Alzheimer Disease
['FUNDING_CAREER'] · BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL · NIH-11067861
This study is looking into how certain harmful forms of a protein called amyloid beta affect brain cells in people with Alzheimer's, hoping to understand why some folks with high levels of this protein don’t seem to have memory problems, which could help in finding better treatments.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_CAREER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11067861 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the molecular mechanisms behind Alzheimer's disease, focusing on the toxic forms of amyloid beta that contribute to neuronal damage. The study aims to identify the specific characteristics of these toxic amyloid beta oligomers and how they interact with neurons, potentially leading to cognitive decline. By using advanced techniques like monoclonal antibodies and cryo-electron microscopy, researchers will analyze the relationship between amyloid beta toxicity and tau protein abnormalities in patients. This work seeks to uncover why some individuals with high amyloid levels do not experience significant cognitive loss, which could inform future treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those exhibiting varying levels of amyloid beta accumulation and cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: Patients with non-Alzheimer's forms of dementia or those without significant amyloid beta accumulation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that better target the toxic forms of amyloid beta, potentially slowing or preventing cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding amyloid beta's role in Alzheimer's, but this specific approach to dissecting its toxic forms is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: STERN, ANDREW MICHAEL — BRIGHAM AND WOMEN'S HOSPITAL
- Study coordinator: STERN, ANDREW MICHAEL
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.