Understanding Brain Changes in Aging and Menopause Related to Alzheimer's

A spatially resolved joint cortical metabolome and proteome in aging and menopause for the rhesus macaque

NIH-funded research Duke University · NIH-11088744

This project looks at brain changes in aging and during menopause in a monkey model to better understand how Alzheimer's disease starts in people.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionDuke University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Durham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11088744 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We are exploring how the brain changes with age and during menopause, especially focusing on early signs of Alzheimer's disease. Researchers are studying rhesus macaques because their brains and aging process are very similar to humans, making them excellent models for understanding late-onset Alzheimer's. This work aims to uncover the specific chemical and protein changes that happen in different parts of the brain before Alzheimer's symptoms become clear. By mapping these changes, we hope to find new ways to detect and address the disease earlier.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational animal research is relevant for individuals concerned about late-onset Alzheimer's disease, especially women experiencing menopause, as it aims to uncover disease mechanisms.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical trials or direct treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science animal research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the earliest stages of Alzheimer's disease, particularly in women, potentially paving the way for new diagnostic tools or treatments.

How similar studies have performed: Macaque monkeys are recognized as valuable models for studying human aging and Alzheimer's-like brain changes, building on previous research demonstrating their relevance.

Where this research is happening

Durham, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.