Understanding how notch3 affects brain cell function in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Identifying the role of notch3 in brain pericyte function in health and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10679198 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein called notch3 affects brain cells that help keep our blood-brain barrier healthy, which is important for brain health, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, and it hopes to find new ways to protect or improve this barrier for better brain function.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,838,781 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS132441-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10679198 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or are at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of notch3 in the function of brain pericytes, which are crucial for maintaining the blood-brain barrier (BBB) and overall brain health. By utilizing human pluripotent stem cell technology, the study aims to model brain pericytes and understand how they interact with other brain cells in both healthy conditions and in Alzheimer's disease. The research will explore the molecular mechanisms that regulate these interactions, which could lead to new insights into the pathogenesis of Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from advancements in understanding how to protect or restore BBB function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease by improving brain health and function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of brain pericytes in other neurological conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shusta, Eric V — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Shusta, Eric V
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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.