Investigating the role of a specific receptor in brain inflammation and Alzheimer's disease.
DARC, Inflammaging and Alzheimer's Disease
This study is looking at how inflammation in the brain might affect memory and thinking as we get older, especially in African Americans, by exploring a specific gene called DARC that helps control this inflammation, and it uses animal models to see how changes in this gene could impact the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11017001 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how chronic inflammation in the brain contributes to cognitive decline and Alzheimer's disease as people age. It examines the Duffy Antigen Receptor for Chemokines (DARC), which helps regulate inflammatory signals in the brain. By studying genetic variations in DARC, particularly in African Americans, the research aims to uncover how these differences may influence the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease. The approach includes using animal models to observe the effects of DARC on cognitive function and inflammation.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old, particularly those of African American descent who may carry specific genetic variations related to DARC.
Not a fit: Patients who are under 21 years old or do not have the genetic variations associated with DARC may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting inflammation in the brain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammation in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Augusta, United States
- Augusta University — Augusta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lu, Xin-Yun — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Lu, Xin-Yun
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.