Understanding how aging affects the human brain in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Mapping the landscape of the aged human brain for neurodegenerative disease models
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-10931824 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how our brains change as we get older, especially in connection with diseases like Alzheimer's, to help find better ways to understand and treat these age-related brain issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $205,619 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087874-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10931824 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are experiencing cognitive decline or have a family history of Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-onset Alzheimer's or those with non-neurodegenerative cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biological processes of aging in the human brain, particularly in relation to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. By utilizing advanced human cell models and analyzing extensive data from post-mortem brain studies, the research aims to uncover the genetic and cellular changes that occur with aging. This approach seeks to bridge the gap between laboratory findings and human biology, potentially leading to better understanding and treatment options for age-related brain disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies and interventions for patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using human cell models and multi-omic data has shown promise in understanding neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young, Jessica Elaine — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Young, Jessica Elaine
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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.