New biological targets behind Alzheimer's disease
Harnessing new targets and mechanisms mediating AD pathogenesis
This project looks for genes and pathways tied to Alzheimer's that could point to new treatments for people with the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11231228 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers created a fruit fly model that carries human amyloid-beta and tau proteins to mimic key features of Alzheimer's. They turned off thousands of genes in the flies to see which changes make the brain damage better or worse, discovering dozens of candidate genes. The work is done in the lab using these animal models and does not enroll patients. Findings may point scientists toward new drug targets or biomarkers to test in people later on.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This is a laboratory study using model organisms and does not enroll patients for participation.
Not a fit: People looking for immediate treatments or clinical care are unlikely to benefit directly from this basic research right now.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could reveal new targets that researchers can develop into treatments to slow or prevent Alzheimer's progression.
How similar studies have performed: Genetic screens in model organisms have previously identified disease-related genes, but translating fly discoveries into human therapies is an early and uncertain process.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Rincon-Limas, Diego E — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Rincon-Limas, Diego E
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.