Understanding T cell roles in Frontotemporal dementia
Official title: Identifying T cell determinants of heritable Frontotemporal dementia
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11055376 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells called T cells might play a role in Frontotemporal dementia and Alzheimer's disease, especially for people with a specific genetic change, and it hopes to find ways to help these immune cells work better to improve health outcomes for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $631,756 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG085316-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11055376 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia or those carrying the C9ORF72 mutation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Frontotemporal dementia or the C9ORF72 mutation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how T cell dysfunction and the balance of T cell subsets contribute to Frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to explore the interaction between environmental signals, such as those from the gut microbiome, and genetic factors that affect T cell function and disease progression. By focusing on the common C9ORF72 mutation associated with FTD, the research seeks to identify potential strategies to stabilize beneficial T regulatory cells and reduce harmful pro-inflammatory cells, which could improve patient outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventative strategies and treatments for Frontotemporal dementia and related disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promising results in understanding T cell roles in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burberry, Aaron — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Burberry, Aaron
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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.