Understanding how APOE4 affects brain cell function in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Elucidating endolysosomal trafficking dysregulation induced by APOE4 in human astrocytes
Funded at Boston University Medical Campus · NIH-11078325 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called APOE4 might affect brain cells and contribute to Alzheimer's disease, with the goal of finding new ways to help 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 | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $780,310 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG082362-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11078325 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease, particularly those who are carriers of the APOE4 allele.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without the APOE4 allele or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the APOE4 gene variant in the development of Alzheimer's disease by examining how it disrupts the normal trafficking of cellular components in brain cells, particularly astrocytes. The study utilizes advanced techniques to analyze human brain cell types derived from induced pluripotent stem cells, focusing on how APOE4 influences cholesterol metabolism and other cellular processes. By identifying the specific mechanisms involved, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that better manage or even prevent Alzheimer's disease in individuals carrying the APOE4 variant.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of genetic variants in Alzheimer's disease, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Boston University Medical Campus
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tcw, Julia — Boston University Medical Campus
- Study coordinator: Tcw, Julia
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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.