Investigating the effects of MOTS-C and APOE on Alzheimer's disease
Official title: MOTS-C, APOE, and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Southern California · NIH-10982248 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special peptide called MOTS-C to see if it can help protect against the risks of Alzheimer's disease linked to a specific gene, especially for those who may be at higher risk due to their genetics.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $827,764 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG084214-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10982248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who carry the APOE4 allele and are at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not carry the APOE4 allele or who are not experiencing age-related cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how a mitochondrial-derived peptide called MOTS-C may help protect against the effects of the APOE4 allele, which is linked to increased risk of Alzheimer's disease and accelerated aging. By studying both mice with human APOE genotypes and those with Alzheimer's-related genetic changes, the researchers aim to understand how MOTS-C influences cognitive decline and age-related health. The study will focus on the peptide's potential to improve metabolic and immune responses that could mitigate Alzheimer's pathology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance cognitive health and longevity in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches targeting metabolic pathways in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting potential for success in this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Southern California
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pike, Christian J — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Pike, Christian J
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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.