Investigating the role of microRNA-212 in Alzheimer's disease and blood-brain barrier disruption
Official title: Vascular MicroRNA-212 in CAA and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-11089959 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a tiny molecule called microRNA-212 affects the blood-brain barrier and brain health in people with Alzheimer's disease, especially how it interacts with harmful protein buildup in the brain, to help us understand more about the disease and find better ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $66,253 |
| NIH project number | 3R21NS135606-01S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11089959 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those showing signs of cerebrovascular dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Alzheimer's disease or those without cerebrovascular issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how microRNA-212 affects the regulation of blood-brain barrier (BBB) function and cerebrovascular health in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD) and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA). The researchers will explore how the accumulation of amyloid-β (Aβ) plaques influences the behavior of endothelial cells, which are crucial for maintaining the integrity of the BBB. By examining the relationship between Aβ, microRNA-212, and endothelial cell health, the study aims to uncover potential mechanisms that contribute to the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that protect the blood-brain barrier and improve outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has indicated that targeting microRNAs may have therapeutic potential in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fossati, Silvia — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Fossati, Silvia
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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.