Understanding how brain cells help protect against Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Role of microglia in cognitive resilience to AD
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10831520 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells might help some people stay mentally sharp even when they have signs of Alzheimer's, focusing on a protein called TREM2 that could help the brain clean up damaged connections; the goal is to find new ways to support brain health for those at risk of Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $120,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG082230-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10831520 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who show signs of Alzheimer's disease pathology but remain cognitively healthy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already experiencing significant cognitive decline due to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microglia, a type of brain cell, in helping some individuals remain cognitively healthy despite having the brain changes typically associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to uncover the molecular and cellular mechanisms that contribute to this cognitive resilience, focusing on a specific protein called TREM2 that may enhance the brain's ability to clear damaged synapses. By analyzing brain samples from individuals who are cognitively intact but show signs of Alzheimer's pathology, the researchers hope to identify factors that could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease. This work could pave the way for innovative therapies aimed at boosting cognitive resilience in at-risk populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help protect cognitive function in individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding cognitive resilience in the context of Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fracassi, Anna — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Fracassi, Anna
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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.