Investigating mitochondrial function and gene expression in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Subcellular mito-nuclear balance and gene expression dynamics in Alzheimers's disease
Funded at Harvard Medical School · NIH-11053956 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in tiny parts of brain cells, called mitochondria and nuclei, might contribute to problems in Alzheimer's disease, and it's using a new method to track how genes are turned on and off in these cells to better understand what's happening in the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard Medical School NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $466,125 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG091645-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053956 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how mitochondrial function and gene expression are affected in Alzheimer's disease (AD). It explores the relationship between mitochondria and the nucleus in neurons, particularly how imbalances can lead to cellular dysfunction. Using a novel technique called subcellular TimeLapse-seq, the study aims to quantify the dynamics of RNA transcription and degradation in neuronal cells. By examining these processes, the research seeks to uncover the underlying mechanisms of AD pathology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease, potentially informing the development of targeted therapies.
How similar studies have gone: While mitochondrial dysfunction has been studied in Alzheimer's disease, this specific approach using subcellular TimeLapse-seq is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard Medical School
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Churchman, Lee Stirling — Harvard Medical School
- Study coordinator: Churchman, Lee Stirling
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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.