Federal Grant Award Summary

Northwestern University's Sponsored Research Division received a $124,987 Project Grant from the National Institute on Aging (NIA) under the Aging Research program (CFDA 93.866), effective July 1, 2026 through April 30, 2031. The award supports research investigating the role of ACE1 R1284Q, a rare protein-altering variant in Angiotensin I Converting Enzyme, in Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathogenesis. The research will employ single-cell RNA sequencing and animal models to elucidate the mechanisms by which this genetic variant exacerbates neurodegeneration through aberrant Angiotensin II-Angiotensin II Receptor Type 1 signaling within the neurovascular unit, with particular focus on vascular dysfunction, neuroinflammation, and selective hippocampal neurodegeneration.

The project will deliver scientific research findings and analysis identifying the pathways and cell types involved in ACE1-associated vascular dysfunction and neuroinflammation in AD. Research outcomes will contribute to understanding the selective vulnerability of hippocampal neurons in AD and may inform the development of targeted therapeutic interventions, given that current ACE inhibitor and Angiotensin II Receptor Type 1 blocker treatments demonstrate potential in preventing hippocampal neurodegeneration in preclinical models. The work aligns with NIA's mission to support biomedical research directed toward understanding aging processes and preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.