Understanding how different brain cells are affected by Alzheimer’s disease and aging
Official title: Cell-type specific risk and resilience in Alzheimer’s disease and aging
Funded at Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr · NIH-11084476 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Alzheimer’s disease affects different brain cells and how age and genetics play a role, using samples from people and mice to find out which cells are more sensitive or resistant to the disease, with the hope of discovering new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hershey, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2021 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $624,205 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG072602-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11084476 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, particularly those with a family history or genetic predisposition, as well as older adults experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's disease who do not have identifiable genetic risk factors or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the varying impacts of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) on different types of brain cells, focusing on how age and genetic factors influence these effects. By examining both human brain samples and mouse models, the study aims to identify specific cell types that are more vulnerable or resilient to AD. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques in systems biology to analyze gene expression changes in these cells, which may reveal important insights into the mechanisms of AD and aging. Ultimately, the goal is to establish cell-type specific signatures that could inform future therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that better address the specific vulnerabilities of different brain cell types in Alzheimer’s disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cell-type specific responses in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
Hershey, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Paul, Anirban — Pennsylvania State Univ Hershey Med Ctr
- Study coordinator: Paul, Anirban
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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.