Understanding how a specific microRNA affects brain cell vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Regulation of entorhinal cortex layer II vulnerability by a cell-type specific miRNA
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11143289 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Boston University Medical Campus NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $668,092 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG085444-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11143289 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
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.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any genetic predisposition to the disease may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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 University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Roussarie, Jean-Pierre — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Roussarie, Jean-Pierre
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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.