Investigating the link between mitochondrial DNA changes and brain health in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Associations of Mitochondrial DNA Alterations with Alzheimer's Disease Related Brain Health
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-10906984 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in the DNA found in our cells' energy factories, called mitochondria, might be linked to brain health and memory problems in people with Alzheimer's, especially in midlife, to find early signs that could help prevent the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $96,589 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AG083214-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906984 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include adults in midlife who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic predispositions such as the APOE ε4 allele.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how alterations in mitochondrial DNA may be connected to brain health and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. By examining blood indicators of mitochondrial function, such as mitochondrial DNA copy number and mutation load, the study aims to identify early biomarkers that could help in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease. The research focuses on midlife individuals, a critical period for potential preventive interventions, and seeks to understand the relationship between these mitochondrial changes and neurobiological factors associated with Alzheimer's. Participants may undergo assessments to evaluate their mitochondrial DNA and cognitive health over time.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to early detection methods and preventive strategies for Alzheimer's disease, improving outcomes for at-risk individuals.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in linking mitochondrial function to cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pan, Yang — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Pan, Yang
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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.