Mobile DNA activity in Alzheimer's and brain aging
Role of Retrotransposon Activity in Neurodegeneration and Alzheimer's Disease
['FUNDING_P01'] · BROWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11242048
This project looks at whether bits of mobile DNA that become active with aging might damage brain cells in people with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_P01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BROWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11242048 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient perspective, the team will measure activity of so-called "mobile" DNA sequences in brains affected by Alzheimer's and in laboratory models. They will use genomic methods (including ATAC sequencing) and molecular tests to see when and where these sequences become active and how that activity relates to tau pathology and cell damage. The researchers will work with human brain samples and complementary cell and animal models to trace mechanisms that let mobile DNA escape normal controls. They will also explore molecular ways to block or reduce harmful activity.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults (21+) diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who can provide clinical information, consent for use of tissue or biospecimens, or participate in related observational studies.
Not a fit: People without Alzheimer's or whose cognitive problems are due to clearly unrelated causes (for example, acute injury or non-neurodegenerative illness) are unlikely to get direct benefit from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to new targets or approaches to slow or prevent brain cell damage in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work from this team and other groups has reported increased retrotransposon activity with aging and neurodegeneration, but turning that knowledge into treatments remains an early and emerging effort.
Where this research is happening
PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES
- BROWN UNIVERSITY — PROVIDENCE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SEDIVY, JOHN M — BROWN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SEDIVY, JOHN M
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.