Talking about genetics and Alzheimer's biomarkers with American Indian and Alaska Native elders
Official title: Communicating Heath Advancements from Native GEnetics Research (CHANGE Research)
Funded at Washington State University · NIH-11359749 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project will work with American Indian and Alaska Native older adults to create clear, culturally respectful messages about Alzheimer’s biomarkers and genetics so people can make informed choices about joining research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pullman, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $541,084 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG093837-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11359749 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal participants are American Indian and Alaska Native adults—especially elders (65+) and caregivers—who can share their views on genetics, biomarkers, and research communication.
✕Less likely to help
People who are not American Indian or Alaska Native or those who do not want to discuss genetics or research participation are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this project.
What this research studies
Researchers will partner with American Indian and Alaska Native (AI/AN) communities and elders to learn how people understand genetic and biomarker information related to Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias. They will gather input using interviews, focus groups, surveys, and community workshops to hear concerns and preferences. The team will co-create and test culturally tailored communication and recruitment materials, and may pilot those materials with community members. The aim is to improve understanding and trust so more AI/AN people can decide whether to take part in biomarker and genetics research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could increase trust and participation of AI/AN elders in Alzheimer's research and help ensure biomarker-based diagnosis and treatments are developed with their needs in mind.
How similar studies have gone: Community-led outreach has improved participation among some underrepresented groups, but focused efforts on AI/AN attitudes toward ADRD biomarkers and genetics are relatively new and less proven.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington State University
Pullman, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boyd, Amanda D. — Washington State University
- Study coordinator: Boyd, Amanda D.
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.