Understanding how disrupted autophagy leads to inflammation and plaque buildup in Alzheimer's disease

Inflammation and plaque formation downstream of disrupted autophagy in Alzheimer's disease

NIH-funded research University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11134761

This study is looking at how problems with a process called autophagy might lead to Alzheimer's disease and other types of dementia, with the hope of finding new ways to help people get diagnosed earlier and receive better treatment.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Pennsylvania NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Philadelphia, United States)
Project IDNIH-11134761 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of disrupted autophagy in the development of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By examining how this disruption contributes to chronic inflammation and plaque formation, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic targets. Using innovative models, the research will explore the interactions between neurons and microglia, focusing on specific genetic risk factors associated with Alzheimer's. The goal is to enhance early identification and intervention strategies for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic variants associated with disrupted autophagy.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without the specific genetic risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting autophagy for Alzheimer's treatment, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Philadelphia, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.