Investigating the role of a specific enzyme in brain inflammation related to Alzheimer's disease.

Brain cPLA2 as a mechanism for neuroinflammation in AD/ADRD with and without APOE4

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11212218

This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called cPLA2 might play a role in brain inflammation for people with Alzheimer's disease, especially those with a certain genetic risk, to help find new ways to slow down memory loss.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11212218 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how calcium-dependent phospholipase A2 (cPLA2) contributes to neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease (AD) and related dementias. By analyzing brain samples from older adults, particularly those with the APOE4 genetic risk factor, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms by which cPLA2 activation may accelerate cognitive decline. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques to examine the activation patterns of cPLA2 and its signaling pathways in different brain cell types. This approach could lead to insights into potential therapeutic targets for slowing down the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those who are APOE4 carriers.

Not a fit: Patients without Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, or those who do not carry the APOE4 allele, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow cognitive decline in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.