Understanding how neuroinflammation affects Alzheimer's and ALS
Official title: Dissecting neuroinflammatory mechanisms in a model of progressive TDP-43 pathology
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11030730 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation in the brain affects diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat these conditions by understanding how certain proteins and genes are involved.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $74,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32AG086044-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030730 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to Alzheimer's or ALS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neuroinflammation in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's Disease (AD) and Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). It focuses on the mechanisms by which immune cells can harm healthy neurons, particularly through the dysregulation of a protein called TDP-43. By identifying specific genes and pathways involved in this process, the research aims to find new targets for therapies that could help manage or treat these conditions. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to improved treatment options.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's and ALS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting neuroinflammatory pathways in similar neurodegenerative conditions, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'connor, James T — Washington University
- Study coordinator: O'connor, James T
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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.