Investigating lipid changes in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Lipid imaging expansion microscopy to study Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Massachusetts Institute of Technology · NIH-11078351 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how fats in the brain might affect Alzheimer's disease and how certain genes, like APOE4, could influence this process, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Institute of Technology NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $755,727 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG087374-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078351 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with the APOE4 allele.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's who do not carry the APOE4 allele may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of lipids in Alzheimer's disease, a condition characterized by cognitive decline and specific brain pathologies. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to explore how lipid-rich areas in brain cells contribute to the disease's progression. Researchers will examine the effects of genetic factors, such as the APOE4 allele, on lipid accumulation and its implications for neuronal health. The findings could provide insights into the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer's and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting lipid-related pathways.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lipid involvement in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boyden, Edward S. — Massachusetts Institute of Technology
- Study coordinator: Boyden, Edward S.
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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.