Investigating sodium channels in Alzheimer's disease and epilepsy
Official title: Targeting Excitability in Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10890957 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a gene related to epilepsy might affect memory and other symptoms in people with Alzheimer's disease, and it hopes to find new ways to help those who experience both conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $307,230 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AG087436-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890957 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline or seizures.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Alzheimer's disease who do not exhibit any cognitive impairment or seizure activity may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the connection between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and epilepsy, particularly how increased activity of sodium channels may contribute to cognitive decline and other symptoms in AD patients. The study aims to explore the role of the SCN8A gene, which encodes a sodium channel linked to epilepsy, and its potential impact on AD pathology. By examining brain samples and using animal models, the researchers hope to identify new treatment strategies that could alleviate both cognitive impairment and seizure activity in individuals with AD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that improve cognitive function and reduce seizure activity in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting sodium channels for treating epilepsy, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach for Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wong, Jennifer C. — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Wong, Jennifer C.
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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.