Tools to predict Alzheimer's from age-related DNA methylation
New computational tools for understanding and predicting AD via age-associated DNA methylation changes
This project creates computer-based DNA methylation tools to help predict Alzheimer's risk in older adults using minimally invasive markers.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Miami School of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Coral Gables, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10795742 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
They will combine and harmonize many DNA methylation datasets from older adults to look for patterns linked to aging and Alzheimer's. The team will build computational 'epigenetic clocks' that aim to estimate biological aging and signals tied to Alzheimer's traits. Results and tools will be shared through an online platform so researchers and clinicians can access the findings. The work focuses mainly on analyzing blood-based DNA methylation and existing human data, which could later guide blood tests or participant recruitment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults (typically 65+) with or without cognitive symptoms who are willing to provide clinical data or blood samples for DNA methylation analysis.
Not a fit: People under 65, those with non‑Alzheimer causes of dementia, or patients needing immediate treatment changes are unlikely to receive direct clinical benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to inexpensive blood-based tests that identify people at higher risk for Alzheimer's earlier.
How similar studies have performed: Related epigenetic 'age clock' studies have shown promise for aging and disease links, but DNA methylation-based Alzheimer's prediction is still early and not yet clinically established.
Where this research is happening
Coral Gables, United States
- University of Miami School of Medicine — Coral Gables, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Lily — University of Miami School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Wang, Lily
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.