Understanding how disrupted autophagy leads to inflammation and plaque buildup in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Inflammation and plaque formation downstream of disrupted autophagy in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11134761 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 2, 2024 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1 |
| NIH project number | 4R00NS133611-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134761 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic variants associated with disrupted autophagy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without the specific genetic risk factors may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goldsmith, Juliet — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Goldsmith, Juliet
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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.