Understanding how lipid droplet-associated microglia affect the aging brain
Official title: Regulation of LDAM by autopahgy in the aging brain
Funded at University of Maryland Baltimore · NIH-10900994 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called microglia change as we age and how they might play a role in conditions like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve brain health for people dealing with these issues.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Maryland Baltimore NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $660,402 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG081262-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900994 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults and individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of lipid droplet-associated microglia (LDAM) in the aging brain and in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. It focuses on how these microglia, which become activated and pro-inflammatory with age, contribute to lysosomal dysfunction and impaired autophagy. By examining the mechanisms behind the formation of LDAM and their impact on brain health, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for improving brain function in aging and Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from insights into how to better manage or treat neurodegenerative conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of microglia in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Maryland Baltimore
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lipinski, Marta M — University of Maryland Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Lipinski, Marta M
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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.