Understanding how certain proteins affect brain cell function in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Critical tools enabling analysis of biomolecular condensates in microglial signaling and function in aging and Alzheimer Disease
Funded at Columbia University Health Sciences · NIH-10769869 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in brain cells, especially those involved in Alzheimer's disease, react to signals that could help us understand the condition better, with the hope of finding new ways to improve brain health for people with Alzheimer's and those aging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $240,438 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG080464-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10769869 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with genetic predispositions to Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing early symptoms of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-Alzheimer's forms of dementia or those without any genetic risk factors for Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific proteins in brain cells, particularly microglia, respond to signals related to Alzheimer's disease. By examining genetic variants linked to Alzheimer's, the study aims to uncover how these proteins interact and form structures that may influence brain cell behavior. The researchers will explore how changes in these proteins, due to genetic mutations, affect the ability of microglia to migrate and clear debris in the brain, which is crucial for maintaining brain health as we age. The ultimate goal is to identify new targets for treatments that could improve brain function in aging and Alzheimer's patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new biomarkers and therapies that improve brain health and function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting similar molecular pathways in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Columbia University Health Sciences
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: St George-Hyslop, Peter Henry — Columbia University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: St George-Hyslop, Peter Henry
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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.