Understanding how a specific microRNA affects brain cell vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease

Regulation of entorhinal cortex layer II vulnerability by a cell-type specific miRNA

NIH-funded research Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11143289

This study is looking at how a tiny molecule called miR-129-2 affects brain cells in people with Alzheimer's disease, hoping to find new ways to understand and treat the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBoston University Medical Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11143289 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific microRNA, miR-129-2, in the vulnerability of certain brain cells in Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced techniques like single-nucleus RNA sequencing, the study aims to uncover how this microRNA influences the development of neurodegeneration and neurofibrillary tangles in the entorhinal cortex, particularly in the transentorhinal area. The findings could provide insights into the genetic and molecular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's disease and potentially lead to new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with early signs of cognitive decline or familial history of the condition.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any genetic predisposition to the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target the molecular pathways involved in Alzheimer's disease, potentially slowing its progression.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting microRNAs for therapeutic purposes in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.