Understanding how brain immune cells protect against Alzheimer's disease
Determining the neuroprotective mechanism for microglial autophagy in Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how the brain's immune cells, called microglia, help protect against Alzheimer's disease and what happens when they don't work properly, especially in dealing with harmful proteins that build up in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052660 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of microglia, the brain's immune cells, in protecting against Alzheimer's disease by examining their autophagy mechanisms. The study aims to uncover how dysfunctional autophagy in these cells contributes to the progression of Alzheimer's, particularly focusing on the accumulation of toxic beta-amyloid proteins. By analyzing genetic and pathological evidence, the research seeks to clarify the dual role of microglia in both protecting and potentially harming neurons in the context of Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk due to genetic factors.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance the protective functions of microglia in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microglial functions in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yue, Zhenyu — Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai
- Study coordinator: Yue, Zhenyu
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 below.