Understanding how a specific brain region affects Alzheimer's disease
Official title: A human organoid approach to understanding the role of the locus coeruleus in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10997894 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a part of the brain called the locus coeruleus to see how changes there might lead to memory loss and mood issues in people with Alzheimer's disease, using tiny brain models to help find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | September 29, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AG090054-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997894 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those experiencing early symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the locus coeruleus, a key brain region, in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease. By using human organoids, which are miniaturized and simplified versions of organs, the study aims to explore how early changes in this area contribute to symptoms like memory loss and mood disorders. The approach focuses on understanding the relationship between the accumulation of tau protein and the functioning of neurons in the locus coeruleus, which is crucial for attention and memory. This could lead to new insights into potential treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While research on the locus coeruleus in Alzheimer's disease is limited, similar approaches using organoids have shown promise in other neurological conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tish, Margaret — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Tish, Margaret
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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.