Phagocytic disease-associated microglia for alzheimer's treatment
Exploring the role of disease-associated microglia (DAM) in neuroinflammation and Aβ plaque phagocytosis for Alzheimer's therapy. Utilizing NLRP3 inhibitors and Gasdermin D siRNA to enhance DAM's therapeutic efficacy against Aβ plaques.
Overview
The research focuses on the critical role of Disease-Associated Microglia (DAM) in the context of Alzheimer's disease (AD). Microglia, the resident immune cells of the brain, are implicated in inflammation and neurodegeneration associated with AD. This study investigates how DAM can phagocytize amyloid-beta (Aβ) plaques, a hallmark of AD, and modulate neuroinflammation. The strategy involves the use of NLRP3 inhibitors and Gasdermin D siRNA to enhance the phagocytic and therapeutic capacities of DAM, potentially offering a novel therapeutic approach for AD.
Technical specifications
- NLRP3 Inflammasome Activation: Activation of the NLRP3 inflammasome in microglia contributes to neuroinflammation and blood-brain barrier disruption.
- Combination Therapy: Consists of an NLRP3 inhibitor and Gasdermin D siRNA to modulate microglial activity.
- Bioassays: Include Aβ Aggregation Assay using synthetic Aβ peptides and Phagocytosis Assay utilizing fluorescently labeled Aβ peptides to assess plaque degradation by THP-1 cells.
- Analytical Techniques: Thioflavin T fluorescence for monitoring Aβ aggregation and ELISA for quantifying Aβ clearance efficiency.
Technology readiness level
This research is at Technology Readiness Level 3, indicating experimental proof of concept. The assays and strategies are well established in laboratory settings, paving the way for further development and validation.
About University at Buffalo, State University of New York
University at Buffalo is a comprehensive public research university and a leading campus in the State University of New York system. Industry engagement is anchored by co-located labs on a downtown medical campus, a research and technology park with incubators, shared core facilities, and co-op talent pipelines. Partnerships with regional hospitals enable clinical studies and translation, while proximity to the U.S.–Canada border and the binational Great Lakes corridor facilitates cross‑border collaboration. Research is supported by competitive federal funding from NIH, NSF, DOE, and DoD, alongside New York State innovation programs. A dedicated technology transfer office provides IP management, licensing, and startup support.
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