Understanding how sex differences affect Alzheimer's disease risk and treatment response

Impact of sex differences on molecular determinants of AD risk and responsiveness to treatment

['FUNDING_R01'] · WEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY · NIH-11090542

This work explores how differences between men and women, especially related to hormones and cholesterol, influence the risk and progression of Alzheimer's disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEST VIRGINIA UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MORGANTOWN, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11090542 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We know that Alzheimer's disease affects men and women differently, with women often experiencing more severe symptoms after menopause. This project aims to uncover how estrogen and cholesterol interact to create these differences. By studying a unique rabbit model that develops Alzheimer's-like changes, we hope to learn more about how these factors contribute to the disease. The findings could help us understand why women are more susceptible and how treatments might be tailored for each sex.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients at this time, but future studies stemming from this work may seek adults, particularly women, experiencing or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients not affected by Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive decline would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat Alzheimer's disease, especially by considering sex-specific factors like hormones and cholesterol.

How similar studies have performed: While the rabbit model is unconventional, previous research has highlighted the importance of sex differences and cholesterol in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting this approach builds on existing knowledge.

Where this research is happening

MORGANTOWN, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.