Understanding how aging affects brain lipids and their role in neurodegenerative diseases
Function and metabolism of aging lipids in the brain
This study is looking at how fats in the brain change as we get older and how these changes might affect our thinking and memory, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's, by examining aging mice to find specific fats that could help us understand and possibly treat age-related brain issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Salk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-10860786 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the changes in lipid composition in the brain as we age and how these changes may contribute to cognitive decline and neurodegenerative diseases. By studying aging mice, the researchers aim to identify specific lipids, particularly a novel class called SGDGs, that decrease with age and may promote brain inflammation. The study employs advanced lipidomics techniques to analyze the brain lipidome and seeks to understand the biological activity of these lipids in the context of aging and disease. This could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for age-related cognitive decline.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults at risk for cognitive decline or those with early signs of neurodegenerative diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with acute neurodegenerative conditions or those not experiencing age-related cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lipid dynamics in aging, but the specific focus on SGDGs is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, UNITED STATES
- Salk Institute for Biological Studies — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Saghatelian, Alan — Salk Institute for Biological Studies
- Study coordinator: Saghatelian, Alan
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.