Understanding how certain proteins trigger inflammation in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Mechanisms of NLRP3 inflammasome activation
Funded at University of Missouri-St. Louis · NIH-10796165 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules linked to Alzheimer's disease trigger a part of the immune system called the NLRP3 inflammasome, with the hope of finding new ways to treat Alzheimer's and similar inflammatory conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Missouri-St. Louis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $459,279 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM152964-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10796165 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 neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative forms of dementia or those without any inflammatory conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the NLRP3 inflammasome, a key component of the immune system, and how it is activated by specific molecules associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study will explore the interactions between these molecules, known as damage-associated molecular patterns (DAMPs), and inflammasome proteins both in laboratory settings and within living cells. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research aims to provide insights that could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's and related inflammatory conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease and other inflammatory disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of inflammasomes in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Missouri-St. Louis
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nichols, Michael R. — University of Missouri-St. Louis
- Study coordinator: Nichols, Michael R.
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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.