MOTS-c peptide and APOE in Alzheimer's disease
MOTS-C, APOE, and Alzheimer's disease
Researchers are testing whether a natural mitochondrial peptide called MOTS-c can protect people with APOE4-related risk from age-related memory loss and Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11162477 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This work tests MOTS-c in mice engineered to carry human APOE genes, including the high-risk APOE4 version, and in mice that model Alzheimer-related proteins across different ages. The teams will give MOTS-c and measure whole-body and brain outcomes, focusing on blood lipids, immune cell (macrophage) behavior, and signs of memory loss. Studies compare mice with and without Alzheimer transgenes and tau pathology to see if MOTS-c slows cognitive decline and brain changes. Results could point to a path for future human trials aimed at people with APOE-related risk.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who carry the APOE4 gene or older adults with age-related memory decline would be the most likely candidates for future trials stemming from this work.
Not a fit: People whose cognitive problems stem from non–age-related causes or conditions unrelated to APOE biology may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, MOTS-c could slow age-related memory loss and reduce Alzheimer's-related brain changes, especially for people with APOE4.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies have shown MOTS-c can improve healthy lifespan and metabolic health, but its effects on Alzheimer's-related brain changes are largely untested in humans.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pike, Christian J — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Pike, Christian J
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.