Understanding brain cell vulnerability in individuals with Down syndrome and Alzheimer's disease
Investigating the susceptibility of basal forebrain cholinergic neurons in individuals with Down syndrome
This study is looking at how certain brain cells are affected in people with Down syndrome who might develop Alzheimer's disease, to see if there are fewer of these cells and why that might be, with the goal of finding better ways to understand and treat Alzheimer's in this group.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10878553 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific brain cells, known as basal forebrain cholinergic neurons, are affected in individuals with Down syndrome who are at high risk for developing Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to determine if there are fewer of these neurons in the brains of individuals with Down syndrome and to explore the molecular reasons behind their vulnerability. By analyzing brain tissue and creating models from stem cells, researchers hope to uncover important insights that could lead to better understanding and treatment options for Alzheimer's disease in this population.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those who are approaching middle age or older.
Not a fit: Patients without Down syndrome or those who are not at risk for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been limited research on the specific vulnerability of these neurons in Down syndrome, studies on Alzheimer's disease pathology in general have shown promising results in understanding neurodegeneration.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: West, Nicole — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: West, Nicole
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.