Understanding iron metabolism in a mouse model of Down syndrome
Official title: Iron Metabolism in Ts65Dn mice, a Model of Down syndrome
Funded at St. Louis College of Pharmacy · NIH-10439300 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how iron levels change in mice with Down syndrome as they get older and how this might be different for males and females, which could help us understand health problems like early Alzheimer's disease that can affect people with Down syndrome.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | St. Louis College of Pharmacy NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (St. Louis, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $465,330 |
| NIH project number | 1R15AG077421-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10439300 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation or benefit from this research would include individuals with Down syndrome, particularly those who are aging or at risk for Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not have concerns related to iron metabolism or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how iron metabolism is affected in Ts65Dn mice, which are used as a model for Down syndrome. The study aims to explore how age and sex influence iron regulation in these mice and how this relates to conditions like early onset Alzheimer's disease. By examining various tissues, including the brain and liver, the researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind iron dysregulation and its potential impact on oxidative stress. This could lead to a better understanding of health issues associated with Down syndrome and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide insights into managing iron levels in individuals with Down syndrome, potentially improving their overall health and reducing the risk of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While there is ongoing research into iron metabolism and its effects on various conditions, this specific approach using the Ts65Dn mouse model is relatively novel and may provide new insights.
Where this research is happening
-
St. Louis College of Pharmacy
St. Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Deruisseau, Keith C — St. Louis College of Pharmacy
- Study coordinator: Deruisseau, Keith C
Related research
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DS-ARC: Smartphone-based cognitive check for people with Down syndrome at risk for Alzheimer’s
A smartphone-based cognitive test is being developed and tested for people with Down syndrome who may develop Alzheimer’s disease, to track changes quietly in daily life.
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Immune and NGF factors in Alzheimer’s for adults with Down syndrome
This grant studies why people with Down syndrome develop Alzheimer’s disease by looking at immune signals and nerve growth factor problems.
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.