Investigating the role of CASS4 in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Making a case for CASS4 in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11112431 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene called CASS4 might play a role in late-onset Alzheimer's disease, using special mice to see how the absence of this gene affects brain cells and their response to the harmful plaques found in Alzheimer's, which could help find new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $571,257 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG087406-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112431 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for late-onset Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with a family history or genetic predisposition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease or those without genetic risk factors for late-onset Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how mutations in the CASS4 gene may contribute to the development of late-onset Alzheimer's disease. By using genetically modified mice that lack CASS4, researchers aim to explore its impact on neurobiology and the progression of Alzheimer's. The study will examine how the absence of CASS4 affects the behavior of microglia, the brain's immune cells, and their interaction with amyloid beta plaques, which are characteristic of Alzheimer's. The findings could provide insights into potential therapeutic targets for this debilitating condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the CASS4 pathway.
How similar studies have gone: While research on CASS4 in the context of cancer has shown promise, this specific investigation into its role in Alzheimer's disease is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lukens, John R — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Lukens, John R
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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.