Marmoset models to mirror late‑onset Alzheimer’s changes
Project 2: Identify and enhance LOAD-related signatures in outbred and genetically-engineered marmosets
Create and use marmoset models that mimic late‑onset Alzheimer’s to look at gene, brain‑scan, and behavior changes as they age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11168719 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses common and genetically edited marmosets (a small nonhuman primate) to recreate genetic risks linked to late‑onset Alzheimer’s and follows them as they age. Researchers will collect genetic and molecular data, brain imaging, and cognitive and behavioral measures to find early biological signatures of disease. The team combines natural genetic variation with targeted edits at known risk genes to see which changes match human Alzheimer’s patterns. Findings aim to make preclinical testing and biomarker work more predictive of what might happen in people.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: The scientific focus is on late‑onset Alzheimer’s, so results are most relevant to older adults at risk for or living with Alzheimer’s and to people who participate in related human observational studies.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical animal research, people seeking immediate treatment or therapeutic benefit would not directly benefit from participation in this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could speed development of better Alzheimer’s treatments and biomarkers by providing an animal model that more closely reflects human disease progression.
How similar studies have performed: Genetically modified mouse studies have revealed Alzheimer’s pathways and treatment leads, but using marmosets is newer and less proven as a translational bridge to humans.
Where this research is happening
Pittsburgh, United States
- University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh — Pittsburgh, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carter, Gregory W — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Carter, Gregory W
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.