STAR-AD (Selective Targeting of Astrocytes: Metabolic Reprogramming in Alzheimer’s Disease)
Lead researcher
Research group
Funds Source:
Other entities
Period:
01/11/2025 to 01/11/2030
Project typology:
Coordinated Project
Project status:
ACTIVE
Funding:
362.353 €
Astrocytes are brain cells that help, support and protect neurons, ensuring the brain functions properly by providing energy and defending against stress. However, in diseases like Alzheimer’s, these cells change their metabolism to meet higher energy demands. While initially helpful, this shift can eventually become detrimental and speed up disease progression. Compelling data indicate that the disruption of insulin signaling and the accumulation of glycogen in astrocytes contribute to the progression of Alzheimer’s disease.
This project aims to explore whether targeting astrocyte metabolism by reducing glycogen storage or enhancing insulin signaling can slow down or reverse the progression of Alzheimer’s disease. By understanding how these brain cells change in the disease and finding ways to correct these changes, we aim to develop new treatment strategies to protect brain health in Alzheimer’s patients. This is a Collaborative Research Project from Fundació Pasqual Maragall ( Ref 2024-1409) between Universidad de Navarra ( Coordinator Dr. M Salas) and IQS
