Investigating the role of acid ceramidase in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Acid Ceramidase in Alzheimers Disease
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-10885070 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a certain enzyme called acid ceramidase might play a role in the brain changes that happen in Alzheimer's disease, using specially modified mice to see what happens when this enzyme is removed, which could help us find new ways to treat or prevent the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $75,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R03AG081914-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10885070 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how a specific enzyme, acid ceramidase, may contribute to the neurodegeneration seen in Alzheimer's disease. By using genetically modified mouse models, the study aims to understand the effects of deleting this enzyme on Alzheimer's pathology and behavior. The researchers will analyze how changes in acid ceramidase activity influence brain health and cognitive function, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing or preventing the disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the role of acid ceramidase in Alzheimer's has not been extensively studied, related research on sphingolipid metabolism has shown promising results in understanding neurodegeneration.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Voelkel-Johnson, Christina — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Voelkel-Johnson, Christina
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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.