Understanding how APOE4 affects Lewy body dementia
Official title: Elucidating the Pathomechanisms of APOE4 in Lewy Body Dementia
Funded at Mayo Clinic Jacksonville · NIH-11124664 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific gene called APOE4 might affect Lewy body dementia by examining brain samples and models, with the goal of finding new ways to understand and treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Jacksonville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jacksonville, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $761,583 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG087165-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11124664 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a genetic predisposition to Lewy body dementia, particularly those carrying the APOE4 allele.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without the APOE4 allele or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Lewy body pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which the APOE4 gene variant influences Lewy body dementia (LBD). It focuses on how APOE4 affects the pathology of alpha-synuclein, a protein linked to LBD, using human brain samples, mouse models, and stem cell-derived organoids. By exploring the relationship between APOE4 and LBD, the study aims to identify key molecular pathways and brain regions that are vulnerable to this genetic risk factor. This could lead to a better understanding of LBD and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with Lewy body dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of APOE4 in other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for Lewy body dementia as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
Jacksonville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Na — Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Na
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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.