Understanding brain cell problems in Alzheimer's and related dementias to find new ways to improve memory
Mapping and modeling inhibitory interneurons in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias: novel strategies to reverse neural network dysfunction
This research explores how specific brain cells called interneurons malfunction in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, aiming to find new ways to restore memory and thinking abilities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11166389 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
In Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, brain cells called interneurons don't work correctly, leading to problems with memory and thinking. These interneurons usually help regulate brain activity, but when they are disrupted, brain circuits become overactive. This overactivity can worsen symptoms and increase harmful proteins like amyloid beta. Our goal is to understand why these interneurons fail and to develop new strategies to fix them. We believe that issues with cell energy factories, called mitochondria, might be an early cause of this problem. We are also exploring if transplanting new interneuron cells could help restore healthy brain function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical trials stemming from this work would likely seek individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
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 treatments that target specific brain cell problems to improve memory and thinking for people with Alzheimer's and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of interneurons in AD/ADRD is an emerging field, previous research has highlighted their importance in brain function and disease, suggesting this approach has a strong scientific basis.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Kevin Showen — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Chen, Kevin Showen
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.