Understanding toxic features of proteins involved in Alzheimer's disease using patient-derived stem cells
Official title: Exploiting Alzheimer's disease patient-derived stem cells to biochemically define tau and amyloid-beta oligomer toxic features and their downstream cellular effects
Funded at Wesleyan University · NIH-11080359 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins related to Alzheimer's disease behave in brain-like models made from stem cells of people with the condition, so researchers can better understand how they harm brain cells and potentially find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wesleyan University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Middletown, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $322,028 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG078187-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080359 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who are willing to provide stem cell samples.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the biochemical properties of amyloid-beta and tau proteins, which are crucial in the progression of Alzheimer's disease. By utilizing stem cells derived from Alzheimer's patients, the study aims to create brain-like models that mimic the disease environment. These models will help researchers understand how these proteins become toxic and affect brain cells. The approach involves growing these stem cells into organoids that replicate the human brain's structure and function, allowing for detailed toxicity screening.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of targeted therapies that effectively combat the toxic effects of amyloid-beta and tau proteins in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using patient-derived stem cells to model neurodegenerative diseases, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Wesleyan University
Middletown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: O'neil, Alison Linsley — Wesleyan University
- Study coordinator: O'neil, Alison Linsley
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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.