Understanding how reactive astrocytes contribute to aging and neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Function of reactive astrocytes in aging and neurodegenerative disease
Funded at Broad Institute, INC. · NIH-11080548 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells, called reactive astrocytes, change as we age and in diseases like Alzheimer's and Alexander Disease, to find out if understanding these changes can help us find better ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Broad Institute, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $93,197 |
| NIH project number | 7K00AG068523-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080548 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or Alexander Disease, particularly those experiencing significant symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to astrocyte dysfunction or those in very advanced stages may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of reactive astrocytes in the aging process and neurodegenerative diseases, particularly focusing on their behavior in conditions like Alzheimer's and Alexander Disease. The study aims to explore how these cells change in response to injury or inflammation, specifically looking at a protein called GFAP that is crucial for astrocyte function. By using both pharmacological and genetic methods, researchers will examine how certain enzymes affect the behavior of astrocytes in laboratory models and in mice that mimic human disease. This could lead to new insights into how to manage or treat these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases, potentially improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of astrocytes in neurodegeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Broad Institute, INC.
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Battaglia, Rachel — Broad Institute, INC.
- Study coordinator: Battaglia, Rachel
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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.