Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the most common neurodegenerative disease leading to dementia worldwide but lacks effective treatment. Recent studies have revealed that microglia, the immune cells of the brain, have a central role in development of AD. This project aims at elucidating the molecular mechanisms of AD- and aging-related microglial dysfunction in carriers of Finnish-specific gene variant. According to preliminary data, the variant is a risk factor for AD and causes dysfunction human derived microglial cell models. The project utilizes the latest methodology, biobank cohorts, human cell models and biological samples. The project will yield novel mechanistic insights into microglial dysfunction and potential novel biomarkers, which can be utilized for developing diagnostic and treatment modalities for AD and other neurodegenerative diseases.

2023

2027