Understanding how brain cells communicate in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Genetics-informed dissection of human brain cell-cell communication in Alzheimer's disease progression
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11146696 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different brain cells work together in people with Alzheimer's disease to understand what goes wrong as the disease progresses, using tiny brain models made from human cells to help find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $773,979 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG089717-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11146696 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it due to age or genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage cognitive impairment not related to Alzheimer's disease may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the complex interactions between different types of brain cells, such as microglia, astrocytes, and neurons, in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By developing innovative analytical methods, the study aims to uncover how these cells communicate and how their interactions may become disrupted as AD progresses. The research will utilize human-derived brain organoids to validate findings, providing insights into the cellular mechanisms underlying AD. This could lead to a better understanding of the disease and potential new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the communication pathways between brain cells.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding cell communication in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Li, Bingshan — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Li, Bingshan
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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.