Understanding T cell roles in Frontotemporal dementia

Identifying T cell determinants of heritable Frontotemporal dementia

NIH-funded research Case Western Reserve University · NIH-11055376

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCase Western Reserve University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11055376 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia or those carrying the C9ORF72 mutation.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Frontotemporal dementia or the C9ORF72 mutation may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Cleveland, 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 dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
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.