NIH-funded research R01 grant

The role of APOE4 in cognitive impairment caused by cancer chemotherapy

Official title: APOE4 promotes pathogenesis in a mouse model of cancer chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment

Funded at Georgetown University · NIH-10765740 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a specific gene, called APOE4, might affect memory and thinking skills in cancer patients who are getting chemotherapy, using mice to learn more about how treatment impacts the brain, with the hope of finding ways to help people keep their mental sharpness during and after treatment.

More Cognitive Impairment research and trials

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionGeorgetown University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Washington, United States)
Project startMay 15, 2020
Project endJanuary 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$386,920
NIH project number5R01AG067258-05
Project IDNIH-10765740 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are cancer patients who carry the APOE4 allele and are experiencing cognitive difficulties related to chemotherapy.

Less likely to help

Patients who do not carry the APOE4 allele or who are not undergoing chemotherapy may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates how the APOE4 gene variant influences cognitive impairment in patients undergoing cancer chemotherapy. By using a mouse model, the study examines the mechanisms through which chemotherapy affects brain functions related to learning, memory, and attention, particularly in those with the APOE4 allele. The researchers aim to identify specific pathways that lead to cognitive decline, which could help in understanding similar effects in humans. The findings may provide insights into how to mitigate these cognitive side effects in cancer patients.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating cognitive impairment in cancer patients, particularly those with the APOE4 allele.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that genetic factors like APOE4 significantly influence cognitive outcomes in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Georgetown University
    Washington, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Rebeck, G William — Georgetown University
  • Study coordinator: Rebeck, G William

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.