Understanding aging cells and their impact on the brain in Alzheimer's disease
The pathogenic effects of senescent cells on their microenvironments and their role in human brain aging
This project looks at how aging cells in the brain might contribute to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11187095 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains contain cells that can age and become "senescent," potentially releasing substances that cause inflammation. We want to understand exactly how these senescent cells affect their surroundings and contribute to conditions like Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging and machine learning on brain samples from people with Alzheimer's and related animal models, we aim to pinpoint the specific molecular changes caused by these aging cells. This will help us identify key markers and understand their role in nerve cell death.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational work does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical trials based on these findings would seek individuals with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients not interested in contributing to basic science research or those without Alzheimer's disease or related dementias would not directly benefit from this specific research phase.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease by targeting these aging cells.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team and others has shown a clear link between cellular senescence and neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting this approach builds on existing evidence.
Where this research is happening
San Antonio, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Science Center — San Antonio, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zare, Habil — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Zare, Habil
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.