Understanding how different brain cells age and their role in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Selective vulnerability of cell types in brain aging and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Brown University · NIH-10980424 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in an area called the hypothalamus change as we get older and how these changes might be linked to Alzheimer's disease, with the goal of finding ways to help prevent memory loss and other age-related problems for both men and women.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brown University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Providence, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | September 14, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F99AG083292-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10980424 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults, particularly women, who are at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive decline may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how various types of brain cells, particularly in the hypothalamus, change as we age and how these changes may contribute to Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to identify the specific vulnerabilities of different cell types in the brain, especially focusing on the differences between males and females. By examining these cellular changes, the research seeks to uncover potential interventions that could mitigate cognitive decline and other aging-related issues. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to targeted therapies for Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that specifically target the aging processes in brain cells, potentially improving outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the aging process in brain cells, but this specific focus on selective vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Brown University
Providence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yu, Doudou — Brown University
- Study coordinator: Yu, Doudou
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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.