Understanding CHI3L1/YKL-40 in Alzheimer's disease
Elucidating the role of CHI3L1/YKL-40 in Alzheimer’s disease
This research explores how a protein called CHI3L1/YKL-40 contributes to Alzheimer's disease by affecting brain inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11143125 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that a protein called CHI3L1/YKL-40 is linked to early signs of brain inflammation and Alzheimer's disease. This protein, mainly released by brain support cells called astrocytes, seems to play a key part in the brain's response to stress and inflammation. Our goal is to understand exactly how CHI3L1/YKL-40 signals within the brain to cause nerve cell damage. We will use advanced human stem cell models and special mouse models to uncover these mechanisms. Ultimately, this work aims to find new ways to protect brain cells from damage in Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation at this stage, but future clinical trials based on these findings would seek individuals with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have Alzheimer's disease or related neuroinflammation would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target CHI3L1/YKL-40 signaling to prevent or slow down nerve cell damage in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the association of CHI3L1 with AD is established, the exact mechanisms by which it contributes to the disease are still unclear, making this a novel exploration of its signaling pathways.
Where this research is happening
Providence, United States
- Brown University — Providence, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Yu-Wen Alvin — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Huang, Yu-Wen Alvin
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.