Understanding how certain brain cells are affected in Alzheimer's disease

Multimodal characterization of the mechanisms of selective vulnerability of entorhinal cortical neurons

['FUNDING_R21'] · BOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS · NIH-10885344

This study is looking at special brain cells in the entorhinal cortex that are some of the first to be harmed by Alzheimer's disease, to understand why they get damaged and how they change at both electrical and genetic levels, which could help us learn more about the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorBOSTON UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CAMPUS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10885344 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the specific vulnerability of certain neurons in the entorhinal cortex, which are among the first to be affected in Alzheimer's disease. By examining these neurons at both the electrical and genetic levels, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms that lead to their degeneration. The researchers will use advanced techniques to analyze how these neurons behave and how their gene expression changes in the context of early Alzheimer's. This comprehensive approach could provide insights into why these neurons are particularly susceptible to damage.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the mechanisms that make these neurons vulnerable.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuronal vulnerability in Alzheimer's, but this specific approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

BOSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.