Investigating the role of glial cells in Alzheimer's disease
Functional analysis of glia in tauopathy
This study is looking at how certain brain cells, called glial cells, might play a bigger role in Alzheimer's disease than we thought, and it aims to find new ways to help treat the disease by understanding how these cells affect brain damage caused by tau protein.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10523584 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how glial cells, which are often seen as secondary players in Alzheimer's disease, may actually contribute to the progression of the disease. By using advanced genetic tools and a model organism, Drosophila, the researchers aim to identify specific proteins and pathways in glial cells that influence neurodegeneration associated with tau protein. The study will involve manipulating gene expression in these cells to observe their effects on tau neurotoxicity, potentially leading to new insights into Alzheimer's pathology. Patients may benefit from findings that could inform future therapeutic strategies targeting glial cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing cognitive dysfunction or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not receive benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target glial cells to slow or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of glial cells in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feany, Mel B — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Feany, Mel B
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.