Understanding synapse damage in Alzheimer's disease

Neuropathology of synapses in AD and ADRD

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10590045

This study is looking at how connections between brain cells get damaged in Alzheimer's and similar conditions, using special technology to understand the details better, which could help find new ways to improve treatment and care for people with these diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10590045 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how synapses, the connections between neurons, are damaged in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By using advanced technology called Synaptometry by Time-of-Flight (SynTOF), the team aims to analyze millions of synaptic events at a molecular level. They will also employ machine learning techniques to identify specific cellular pathways that may make certain neurons more vulnerable to damage. This approach seeks to clarify the mechanisms behind cognitive impairment in aging and Alzheimer's, potentially leading to better understanding and treatment options.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with early-stage cognitive impairment or those not diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights that improve treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using advanced molecular techniques and machine learning to understand neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 dementia
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.