Understanding how perineuronal nets affect Alzheimer's Disease
Official title: Defining the role of perineuronal nets in Alzheimer's Disease pathology
Funded at University of California-Irvine · NIH-10864942 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain structures in the brain, called perineuronal nets, work with immune cells to understand their role in Alzheimer's Disease, which could help find ways to protect memory and thinking skills for people living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California-Irvine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Irvine, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $45,241 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AG082501-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10864942 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or those at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of perineuronal nets (PNNs) in the pathology of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). By studying how PNNs interact with microglia, the immune cells of the brain, the project aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to the progression of AD. The research utilizes animal models to observe changes in PNNs and their potential protective effects against the disease. This could lead to new insights into how to preserve cognitive function in individuals with AD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that protect cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding the role of microglia and extracellular matrix structures can lead to significant advancements in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California-Irvine
Irvine, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barahona, Rocio Alejandra — University of California-Irvine
- Study coordinator: Barahona, Rocio Alejandra
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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.