Speeding up the development of mature brain cells for Alzheimer's treatment
Official title: Accelerating Functional Maturation of Human iPSC-Derived Astrocytes
Funded at Brainxell, INC. · NIH-10699505 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at ways to help brain cells grow up faster and work better, which could lead to better treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's and ALS, so patients can have more effective options for their care.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 1 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brainxell, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 17, 2023 |
| Project end | August 16, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $275,615 |
| NIH project number | 1R43MH135527-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10699505 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are affected by Alzheimer's disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurological conditions not related to Alzheimer's disease or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the maturation process of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, derived from human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs). By using specific transcription factors, the researchers aim to accelerate the functional development of these cells, making them more representative of mature brain cells. This advancement could enhance the ability to screen potential drugs for neurological disorders, particularly Alzheimer's disease and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. Patients may benefit from more effective treatments developed through this innovative approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to faster and more effective drug development for Alzheimer's disease and related neurological disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in using iPSC-derived cells for drug discovery, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Brainxell, INC.
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kong, Linghai — Brainxell, INC.
- Study coordinator: Kong, Linghai
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.