Understanding Brain Cell Changes in Alzheimer's and Related Dementias
Project 3 - Astrocytic glutamate dysregulation in AD and VCID
This project explores how a specific protein in brain support cells, called astrocytes, contributes to memory and thinking problems in Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | P01 program project |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11126088 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our brains rely on special support cells called astrocytes to keep things working smoothly, including clearing away a chemical called glutamate and providing energy. In Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, a protein in these astrocytes, EAAT2/Glt-1, often decreases, which might lead to too much glutamate and problems with energy supply to brain cells. This project aims to understand how this change affects blood flow in the brain, its energy use, and the overall communication between brain cells. By understanding these connections, we hope to uncover new ways to protect the brain from damage in these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with Alzheimer's disease and other related dementias in the future.
Not a fit: Patients without Alzheimer's disease or related dementias would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatment strategies that target astrocyte function to improve brain health and slow the progression of Alzheimer's and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that the protein being studied is reduced in Alzheimer's disease, and similar mechanisms have been explored in other disease models, but its specific role in cerebrovascular function and brain metabolism in dementia is less understood.
Where this research is happening
Lexington, United States
- University of Kentucky — Lexington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Norris, Christopher Mark — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Norris, Christopher Mark
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.