Understanding how lipid droplets and cholesterol affect neurons in Alzheimer's disease

Neuronal Vulnerability to Lipid Droplets and Cholesterol in Alzheimer's Disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · ENDEAVOR HEALTH CLINICAL OPERATIONS · NIH-11058469

This study is looking at how fat and cholesterol in brain cells might affect the health of neurons in people with Alzheimer's disease, especially focusing on how certain genes, like the APOE gene, play a role in this process, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat the condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorENDEAVOR HEALTH CLINICAL OPERATIONS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (EVANSTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11058469 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of lipid droplets and cholesterol in the health of neurons affected by Alzheimer's disease. By using human induced pluripotent stem cells to create neuron models, the study examines how different genetic factors, particularly the APOE gene, influence lipid metabolism in aging brains. The researchers aim to uncover the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind neuronal damage and impaired communication between neurons and other brain cells, which could lead to new treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those without any genetic risk factors for the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that protect neurons and improve brain health in Alzheimer's patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lipid metabolism in Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

EVANSTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.