Understanding how retinal synapses form and function in relation to Alzheimer's disease
Trans-synaptic mechanism of retinal synapse formation and function
This study is looking at how nerve cells in the eye connect with each other and how Alzheimer's disease might change these connections, focusing on a special protein that helps these connections work properly, which could help us find new ways to detect Alzheimer's early.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10940047 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which retinal neurons form synaptic connections and how these processes are affected by Alzheimer's disease. The study focuses on a specific protein, α2δ4, which plays a crucial role in aligning neurotransmitter release sites with their corresponding receptors at retinal synapses. By examining how amyloid beta (Aβ) impacts calcium influx through voltage-gated calcium channels, the research aims to uncover the molecular changes that lead to synaptic degeneration in Alzheimer's. The findings could help identify retinal synapses as potential biomarkers for Alzheimer's pathology.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those exhibiting early signs of cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients with retinal disorders unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not receive any benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into Alzheimer's disease and potentially identify retinal synapses as biomarkers for early detection and monitoring of the disease.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between synaptic function and Alzheimer's pathology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Yuchen — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Wang, Yuchen
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 below.