Understanding how sex chromosomes affect disease in rats

Transformative rat models to study sex differences in disease

NIH-funded research University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11046685

This study is creating special rat models to help scientists learn how male and female sex chromosomes affect the way diseases develop and progress, which could lead to better, more personalized treatments for everyone.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Los Angeles NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, United States)
Project IDNIH-11046685 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research aims to develop and validate rat models that can help scientists understand how XX and XY sex chromosomes influence the development and progression of diseases differently in males and females. By creating genetically modified rats with specific sex chromosome configurations, researchers will be able to isolate the effects of these chromosomes from hormonal influences. This approach will allow for a deeper understanding of the molecular pathways that contribute to disease vulnerability or protection based on sex. The findings could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for diseases that show sex differences in their manifestation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with conditions that exhibit sex differences, such as Alzheimer's disease, particularly those aged 21 and older.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have conditions influenced by sex differences or who are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for diseases that affect men and women differently.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown success in using animal models to study sex differences in disease, making this approach promising and relevant.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.