Understanding how brain immune cells affect Alzheimer's disease

Regulation of diverse microglial phenotypes in neurodegeneration

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-10901024

This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the brain, called microglia, might affect the development of Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find ways to use this information to create better treatments for people with the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-10901024 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in the development and progression of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By analyzing brain samples from individuals with late-onset Alzheimer's and age-matched controls, the study aims to identify specific microglial phenotypes that contribute to AD pathology. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques like single nucleus RNA sequencing to explore how these immune cells function and how their activity may be manipulated for therapeutic purposes. This work seeks to clarify the complex interactions between aging and Alzheimer's disease, potentially leading to targeted treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with late-onset Alzheimer's disease or those who are age-matched controls without the disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-onset familial Alzheimer's disease may not benefit directly from this research as it focuses on late-onset forms of the disease.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that specifically target the immune mechanisms involved in Alzheimer's disease, improving outcomes for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microglial roles in neurodegeneration, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Seattle, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.