Targeting aging cells to treat Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Theranostic CAR-T Targeting Senescence in Alzheimer's
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11030576 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease that uses special cells to target and remove old, damaged cells in the brain, with the hope of improving memory and thinking skills in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | March 19, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $834,627 |
| NIH project number | 1R61AG090361-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030576 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without signs of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a new approach to treat Alzheimer's disease by targeting and removing aging cells that contribute to the disease's progression. It utilizes a novel type of CAR T cell therapy, which is designed to specifically identify and eliminate senescent cells in the brain. By combining therapeutic and diagnostic capabilities, this method aims to improve the effectiveness of treatment while minimizing side effects. The study will explore how these engineered T cells can help reverse age-related cognitive decline in older adults.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment for Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving cognitive function and quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: While CAR T cell therapy has shown promise in cancer treatment, this specific application targeting senescent cells in Alzheimer's disease is novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cui, Lina — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Cui, Lina
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.