The role of a specific gene in Alzheimer's disease
Neuronal ABCA7 loss of function and Alzheimer’s disease
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene called ABCA7 might affect fat processing in the brain and contribute to Alzheimer's disease, with the hope that understanding these changes could lead to new treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Jacksonville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jacksonville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10629715 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how mutations in the ABCA7 gene affect lipid metabolism and contribute to Alzheimer's disease. By studying human neurons and mouse models, the team aims to understand how ABCA7 loss of function disrupts mitochondrial function and lipid distribution, which are crucial for maintaining healthy brain cells. The research utilizes advanced techniques like RNA sequencing and cellular analysis to explore the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer's. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting lipid metabolism in Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or genetic predispositions.
Not a fit: Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's disease not linked to ABCA7 mutations may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain health and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting lipid metabolism can be beneficial in understanding and potentially treating Alzheimer's disease, indicating a promising avenue for this investigation.
Where this research is happening
Jacksonville, United States
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville — Jacksonville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanekiyo, Takahisa — Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
- Study coordinator: Kanekiyo, Takahisa
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.