Understanding unusual connections in brain cells in Alzheimer's disease
Abnormal mitochondrial-endolysosomal contacts in AD
This project explores how tiny parts of brain cells connect differently in Alzheimer's disease, particularly for those with a common genetic risk factor.
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 ID | NIH-11115579 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Alzheimer's disease is a common condition affecting older adults, and a specific gene called APOE ε4 is known to increase the risk. This project has found that in the brains of people with Alzheimer's, especially those with the APOE ε4 gene, there are unusual connections between two important parts of brain cells: mitochondria and endolysosomes. These connections might cause problems with how brain cells function and contribute to the disease's progression. Researchers aim to discover how the APOE ε4 gene leads to these abnormal connections and how they impact brain health, hoping to uncover new ways to protect brain cells.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with late-onset Alzheimer's disease, especially those with the APOE ε4 genetic risk factor, are the focus of this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment or diagnostic solutions will not directly benefit from this foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could uncover new targets for treatments that prevent or slow down Alzheimer's disease by addressing these cellular abnormalities.
How similar studies have performed: This project explores a novel abnormality in cellular connections, building on exciting preliminary data rather than replicating prior successful treatments.
Where this research is happening
Cleveland, United States
- Case Western Reserve University — Cleveland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Wenzhang — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Wenzhang
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 below.