Understanding how air pollution and genes affect Alzheimer's disease
Aberrant protein S-nitrosylation mediates Gene-Environment Interactions in AD/ADRD
This research explores how air pollution and genetic factors like ApoE4 might work together to cause Alzheimer's disease and related dementias in older adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11187152 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that Alzheimer's disease and related dementias are complex, likely caused by a mix of lifestyle, genetic, and environmental factors. This project looks closely at how air pollution, specifically fine particles and nitric oxide from car exhaust, might interact with genetic risks like the ApoE4 gene. Our team aims to uncover the specific changes in proteins that happen when these factors combine, which could lead to new ways to prevent or treat the disease. We are studying these changes in brain samples to understand the underlying causes of cognitive decline.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for individuals concerned about Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, especially those with genetic risk factors or exposure to air pollution.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical trial participation may not find direct benefit from this early-stage mechanistic research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could identify new targets for therapies that protect the brain from the combined effects of genetics and environmental pollution, potentially slowing or preventing Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Our group has previously shown that increased nitric oxide contributes to brain damage in Alzheimer's, and this project builds upon those initial findings.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Scripps Research Institute, the — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lipton, Stuart a — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Lipton, Stuart a
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.