Reviving brain stem cells to help memory in Alzheimer's
Neural stem cell rejuvenation through single cell pharmacogenomics
Researchers are using single-cell methods to find drugs that revive aging brain stem cells and may help people with Alzheimer's disease keep or regain memory.
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-11300227 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The research looks at individual neural stem cells and the molecular changes they show with age. Scientists use computer-based network and pharmacogenomics tools to identify compounds that could reverse those aging signatures. Selected compounds are tested in animals to see if they expand stem cell numbers, increase new neuron formation, and improve memory-related behaviors. If results are promising, the findings would guide future clinical trials in people with Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Future clinical trials would likely enroll older adults with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment.
Not a fit: People with advanced Alzheimer's disease or dementia from other causes may be less likely to benefit from these stem-cell–focused approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to drugs that restore neural stem cell function and improve memory in people with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies suggest that boosting neural stem cells can improve memory, but using single-cell pharmacogenomics to create human treatments is largely novel.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bonaguidi, Michael — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Bonaguidi, Michael
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.