Understanding Alzheimer's Disease in Down Syndrome using a Chimeric Mouse Model

A Human iPSC-Based Chimeric Mouse Model of Alzheimers Disease in Down Syndrome

NIH-funded research Rutgers, the State Univ of N.j. · NIH-11015949

This study is looking at how certain brain cells in people with Down syndrome might affect Alzheimer's disease, using special mice that have human brain cells to help find new treatments.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRutgers, the State Univ of N.j. NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Piscataway, United States)
Project IDNIH-11015949 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to explore how human microglia, a type of brain cell, contribute to Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome. By creating a unique mouse model that incorporates human brain cells, researchers will investigate the genetic factors linked to Down syndrome and their effects on brain degeneration. The study will also utilize gene editing techniques to remove extra genes associated with Down syndrome, potentially leading to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease. This approach focuses on understanding the differences between human and mouse brain cells to better address Alzheimer's in both Down syndrome and the general population.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with Down syndrome who are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have a risk of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease, particularly in individuals with Down syndrome.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using humanized models to study Alzheimer's disease, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Piscataway, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.