Understanding how certain proteins affect brain cells in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases
Official title: Evaluating novel transcription factors in regulating astrocyte identity, reactivity, and their roles in neurodegenerative disease pathogenesis
Funded at Washington University · NIH-10985311 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins affect brain cells called astrocytes, which might help us understand their role in Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases, so we can learn more about how these conditions develop and progress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $427,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG089851-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985311 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, as well as those at risk for these conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases other than Alzheimer's or Parkinson's may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of specific proteins called transcription factors in controlling the identity and activity of astrocytes, a type of brain cell, in the context of Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. By examining how these proteins influence astrocyte behavior, the researchers aim to uncover their contributions to the development and progression of neurodegenerative diseases. The study involves analyzing brain tissue samples to identify changes in astrocyte characteristics and their potential links to disease mechanisms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting astrocytes to slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhao, Guoyan — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Zhao, Guoyan
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.