Why Alzheimer's affects African American people differently
The Origins of Alzheimer Disease in African Americans
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · NIH-11118942
This project compares genes and ancestry to understand why Alzheimer's risk is higher or different in African American people.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CORAL GABLES, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11118942 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, this work collects genetic information and family histories from African American people to look for common and rare gene changes linked to Alzheimer's. Researchers will use whole genome sequencing and family-based analyses alongside case-control comparisons to pinpoint variants like APOE and ABCA7 that may act differently with African ancestry. The team will also examine how genetic risk interacts with environmental and cultural factors to explain differences in disease patterns. Increasing the number of African American participants and samples is central so findings are reliable and relevant to these communities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are African American adults, especially those with a family history of Alzheimer’s dementia or who can provide genetic samples and health information.
Not a fit: People without African ancestry or those expecting immediate treatment changes are unlikely to receive direct personal benefit from this genetics-focused study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could improve risk prediction and point to prevention strategies or treatment targets tailored for African American people.
How similar studies have performed: Smaller prior genetic studies in African American groups have identified different risk signals (for example in APOE and ABCA7), but larger whole-genome and family-based work like this is still needed.
Where this research is happening
CORAL GABLES, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE — CORAL GABLES, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: PERICAK-VANCE, MARGARET A. — UNIVERSITY OF MIAMI SCHOOL OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: PERICAK-VANCE, MARGARET A.
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.