Mobile DNA (LINE-1) activation in the aging and Alzheimer's brain
Project 1: Activation of Alternative L1 Lifecycles in the CNS with age and Alzheimer's Disease
This work looks at whether mobile DNA pieces called LINE‑1 wake up in older and Alzheimer's brains and trigger inflammation that harms nerve cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11242054 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
You may hear this described as LINE‑1 or 'mobile DNA' becoming active with age and in Alzheimer's disease. The team measures LINE‑1 activity and the reverse‑transcribed DNA it produces in human brain tissue and in laboratory models. They study how those DNA fragments trigger a type I interferon immune response and cause chronic brain inflammation. Researchers test whether blocking LINE‑1 activity or the inflammatory response protects neurons in cell and animal models to guide potential therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment, and older adults willing to donate samples or enroll in related observational studies, are most likely to be included.
Not a fit: People with memory problems caused by non‑Alzheimer's conditions or young healthy individuals are unlikely to benefit directly from this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could identify new ways to reduce harmful brain inflammation and slow or prevent neuron loss in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies have shown that LINE‑1 activation can drive inflammation in senescent cells and animal models, but treatments targeting this pathway have not yet been proven in patients.
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.