Investigating how viral infections may influence Alzheimer's disease progression
Official title: Alzheimer's Disease associated pathology induced by neurotropic viral infection
Funded at Upstate Medical University · NIH-10904689 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain viruses, like the ones that cause cold sores, might influence the development of Alzheimer's disease, using a special lab model to see how they affect proteins linked to the condition, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Upstate Medical University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2021 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $586,385 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG076007-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10904689 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic predispositions or early symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease or are not experiencing any symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between neurotropic viral infections, specifically herpes simplex virus 1 and human herpesvirus 6a, and the progression of Alzheimer's disease. By using a novel 3D cortical model derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells, the study examines how these viruses may alter the behavior of proteins associated with Alzheimer's, such as Tau. The goal is to understand how these infections could affect the severity and frequency of Alzheimer's disease symptoms, potentially leading to new insights into treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting viral infections.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated a potential link between viral infections and neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Upstate Medical University
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murphy, Eain a — Upstate Medical University
- Study coordinator: Murphy, Eain a
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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.