Understanding how synapse loss occurs in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Molecular mechanisms of synapse loss in Alzheimer’s disease
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10900393 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells and a special fat molecule might be causing the loss of connections in the brains of people with Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to help treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $41,081 |
| NIH project number | 1F30AG087550-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10900393 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 of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the molecular mechanisms behind synapse loss in Alzheimer's disease, focusing on the role of neuroinflammatory glial cells and their interactions with a specific phospholipid called phosphatidylserine. By utilizing a novel CRISPRi screening platform, the study aims to identify how signaling pathways, particularly IL-6 and IL-11, influence synaptic function and the engulfment of synapses by glial cells. The research will involve both in vitro and in vivo models to explore these mechanisms in detail, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or reversing cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding glial cell interactions and synapse loss, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shroff, Kunal — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Shroff, Kunal
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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.