Understanding APOE, brain cells, and cholesterol in aging and Alzheimer's
APOE effects on glial lipid metabolism and 25-hydroxycholesterol: Effects on aging and AD-related pathology
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · MAYO CLINIC JACKSONVILLE · NIH-11105821
This research explores how a protein called APOE influences brain cell activity and fat processing, which could help us understand Alzheimer's disease and aging.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MAYO CLINIC JACKSONVILLE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (JACKSONVILLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11105821 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our brain cells, called glia, play a crucial role in keeping our brains healthy, but they can also contribute to problems like Alzheimer's disease. This project looks at how different forms of a protein called APOE affect these brain cells, specifically how they handle fats and respond to inflammation. We believe that differences in APOE might change how the brain's immune cells react, potentially leading to damage. By understanding these processes, especially how cholesterol and fats are cleared from the brain, we hope to uncover new ways that APOE contributes to Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals with Alzheimer's disease, those at risk, or anyone interested in the biological mechanisms of brain aging and neurodegeneration.
Not a fit: Patients will not receive direct medical treatment or intervention from this basic science project, as it focuses on understanding disease mechanisms rather than clinical trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of Alzheimer's disease, potentially identifying new targets for future treatments that address the role of APOE and brain cell function.
How similar studies have performed: This work builds upon existing evidence and preliminary data suggesting a critical role for APOE and lipid metabolism in Alzheimer's disease, indicating a promising area of investigation.
Where this research is happening
JACKSONVILLE, UNITED STATES
- MAYO CLINIC JACKSONVILLE — JACKSONVILLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HOLTZMAN, DAVID M. — MAYO CLINIC JACKSONVILLE
- Study coordinator: HOLTZMAN, DAVID M.
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome