Understanding how cellular dysfunction contributes to Alzheimer's disease

Characterization of AD-related endolysosomal dysfunction in human neural cells

NIH-funded research University of Washington · NIH-11079457

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Washington NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Seattle, United States)
Project IDNIH-11079457 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a genetic predisposition to Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with variants in the SORL1 gene.

Not a fit: Patients without a genetic risk for Alzheimer's disease or those with advanced stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.