Understanding Frontotemporal Dementia in Rhesus Macaques
Modeling Frontotemporal Dementia in Rhesus Macaques
This study is looking at how frontotemporal dementia affects monkeys with a gene linked to the disease, so researchers can learn more about memory loss and personality changes to help find better treatments for people with FTD.
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-10845480 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates frontotemporal dementia (FTD) in rhesus macaques that carry a specific genetic mutation linked to the disease. By studying these monkeys, researchers aim to better understand the progression of memory loss, personality changes, and other symptoms associated with FTD. The approach includes behavioral tests, MRI scans, and PET imaging to observe brain changes and tau accumulation, which are crucial for developing effective treatments. This work could provide insights into the disease that are directly applicable to human patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of frontotemporal dementia or those diagnosed with the MAPT R406W mutation.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia that do not involve the MAPT gene mutation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from frontotemporal dementia and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using nonhuman primates to model neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for yielding valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Emborg, Marina — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Emborg, Marina
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.