Understanding APOE's Role in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease
Biology and pathobiology of apoE in aging and Alzheimer's disease
This project aims to understand how a gene called APOE affects brain aging and Alzheimer's disease to help develop new treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Jacksonville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jacksonville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11105798 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are working to fully understand how a gene called APOE, particularly its APOE4 version, contributes to Alzheimer's disease and memory decline as we age. APOE4 is a major genetic risk factor for Alzheimer's, while another version, APOE2, seems to offer protection. Our team believes that the slight differences in these APOE versions start a chain of events in brain cells that lead to conditions like Alzheimer's. By studying these differences, we hope to find new ways to protect the brain and treat these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients, but future clinical opportunities may arise for individuals with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease or age-related cognitive decline, particularly those with specific APOE gene variations.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by Alzheimer's disease or age-related cognitive decline, or those without the APOE4 genetic risk factor, may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies and treatments for preventing or slowing down Alzheimer's disease and age-related cognitive decline, especially for those with the APOE4 gene.
How similar studies have performed: This project builds upon existing knowledge about APOE and Alzheimer's disease, integrating previous findings while also exploring new aspects of its biology and pathobiology.
Where this research is happening
Jacksonville, United States
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville — Jacksonville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanekiyo, Takahisa — Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
- Study coordinator: Kanekiyo, Takahisa
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.