Understanding how brain immune cells change in Alzheimer's disease using advanced AI techniques
Official title: Illuminating early microglial dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease through integration of explainable AI and iPSC models
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11190885 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain immune cells called microglia might change as Alzheimer's disease develops, using advanced technology to better understand these changes in brain tissue, which could help us learn more about the disease and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $230,642 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG089394-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11190885 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly older adults showing early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease 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 microglia, the brain's immune cells, in the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By utilizing advanced AI methods, the study aims to identify subtle changes in microglial behavior that may contribute to AD progression. Researchers will analyze human brain tissue samples to uncover specific microglial states associated with aging and Alzheimer's, which could lead to new insights into the disease's mechanisms. The integration of explainable AI with deep learning techniques will help clarify the complex interactions between microglia and AD pathology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving treatment options for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using AI techniques to analyze complex biological data, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jayadev, Suman — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Jayadev, Suman
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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.