Investigating the role of a specific protein in brain development and Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome
The role of APP in neurogenesis and AD in Down syndrome
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO · NIH-10519776
This study is looking at how a protein called APP, which is found in higher amounts in people with Down syndrome, affects brain growth and the chance of developing Alzheimer's disease, using special lab techniques to learn more about it.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10519776 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the amyloid precursor protein (APP), which is triplicated in individuals with Down syndrome, affects brain development and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. By utilizing advanced techniques like CRISPR-Cas9, the study aims to explore the impact of APP overexpression on neurogenesis and Alzheimer's pathology. Researchers will analyze brain organoids derived from induced pluripotent stem cells to assess how APP influences neural stem cell proliferation and neuronal differentiation. The goal is to uncover the molecular mechanisms linking Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those who may be at risk for Alzheimer's disease due to their genetic background.
Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for individuals with Down syndrome who are at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic links between Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO — Chicago, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LAZAROV, ORLY — UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS AT CHICAGO
- Study coordinator: LAZAROV, ORLY
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 below.
Conditions: Genetic Diseases, genetic disorder, Alzheimer's disease brain