Understanding how aging affects Alzheimer's disease through epigenetics
Official title: Epigenetic Regulation in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10997311 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in our genes as we age might affect the development of Alzheimer's disease, and it’s testing whether a certain type of medication could help protect the brain from damage related to this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $599,093 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG079989-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10997311 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older, particularly those at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without any cognitive impairment or risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of epigenetic changes in the aging process and their impact on Alzheimer's disease (AD). By examining mouse models and human brain tissues, the study aims to identify specific histone modifications that occur as individuals age and how these changes may contribute to the development of AD. The researchers will explore whether using histone deacetylase (HDAC) inhibitors can help prevent or reduce the neurological damage associated with Alzheimer's. This approach could provide insights into the molecular mechanisms linking aging and AD, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the onset of Alzheimer's disease in aging populations.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the epigenetic mechanisms of aging and Alzheimer's, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dong, Hongxin — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Dong, Hongxin
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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.