Investigating the role of CLEC7A in microglia and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: CLEC7A in microglia biology and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10659940 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special receptor in brain cells that might help us understand how Alzheimer's disease progresses, and it aims to find out if changing its activity can help clear harmful substances in the brain and improve health for people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,647,138 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG078684-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10659940 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores how the CLEC7A receptor, which is highly active in microglia during neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's, influences disease progression. The study aims to understand the dual role of CLEC7A in promoting inflammation against pathogens and its potential anti-inflammatory effects in response to dead cells. By using mouse models of Alzheimer's disease, researchers will examine how manipulating CLEC7A activity affects the clearance of amyloid beta plaques and overall neuronal health. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain health and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in manipulating immune responses in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
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.