Understanding how certain proteins affect brain cell cleanup in Alzheimer's Disease
Official title: Elucidating Novel Regulators of Microglial Phagocytosis in Alzheimer’s Disease
Funded at University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr · NIH-10972755 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called Qki helps brain cells, known as microglia, clean up harmful substances in Alzheimer's Disease, using mice to see what happens when Qki is missing and how another substance, PI3P, affects these cells as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $38,682 |
| NIH project number | 1F99AG088439-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10972755 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without any cognitive impairment may not directly benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein, Quaking (Qki), in the ability of brain cells called microglia to clear away harmful debris in Alzheimer's Disease (AD). The study will use a mouse model of AD to explore how the loss of Qki affects the progression of the disease and the microglial function. Researchers will also examine how a lipid called Phosphatidylinositol-3-phosphate (PI3P) influences microglial activity and membrane dynamics in the context of aging and AD. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving microglial function in patients with Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance the brain's ability to clear harmful substances, potentially slowing the progression of Alzheimer's Disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding microglial function and its implications for Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mckenzie, Takese Tasseen — University of Tx Md Anderson Can Ctr
- Study coordinator: Mckenzie, Takese Tasseen
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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.