Targeting microglial cells to improve Alzheimer's disease treatment
Official title: Alzheimer's Disease Therapy via the MR Image-Guided Deletion of Microglial SHIP-1 with Focused Ultrasound
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11130730 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with Alzheimer's by using focused ultrasound to deliver treatments that help brain cells clear harmful plaques, with the hope of improving memory and thinking skills without causing extra inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | February 28, 2030 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $759,095 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG086344-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11130730 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with late-onset forms of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's or those without significant amyloid beta plaque accumulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to treat Alzheimer's disease by targeting microglial cells, which are crucial in the disease's progression. The study aims to use MR image-guided focused ultrasound to deliver therapies that inhibit the SHIP-1 protein in microglia, enhancing their ability to clear amyloid beta plaques from the brain. By selectively targeting these cells, the research seeks to improve neuronal health and cognitive function without causing widespread inflammation. Patients may benefit from this innovative method that aims to restore brain function in Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved cognitive function and quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting microglial cells for Alzheimer's treatment, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Price, Richard J. — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Price, Richard J.
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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.