Understanding how cellular dysfunction contributes to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Characterization of AD-related endolysosomal dysfunction in human neural cells
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11079457 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genetic changes related to Alzheimer's disease affect brain cells, using special cells from patients, to help understand the disease better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $815,882 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG080585-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11079457 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with variants in the SORL1 gene.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease or those with advanced stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of endo-lysosomal dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease by using human induced pluripotent stem cells (hiPSCs) derived from patients. The team will focus on how genetic variations in the SORL1 gene, which is linked to Alzheimer's risk, affect the function of neurons and microglia. By studying these cells, researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms behind cellular dysfunction in the brain and explore potential therapeutic pathways. This approach combines genetics and cell biology to provide insights into the disease's progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the genetic factors contributing to Alzheimer's disease, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Young, Jessica Elaine — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Young, Jessica Elaine
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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.