The Role of Aspergillus versicolor and the Th2 Lung-Brain Axis in Alzheimer's Disease-like Neuropathology

NIH RePORTER · NIH · R01 · $41,000 · view on reporter.nih.gov ↗

Abstract

SUPPLEMENT ABSTRACT Dr. Michelle Block seeks an administrative supplement under the "Established Investigators Who Are or Become Disabled" category due to recently acquired disabilities, necessitating additional personnel and software supports. The parent grant, 1R01AG07614, The Role of Aspergillus versicolor and the Th2 Lung– Brain Axis in Alzheimer's Disease-like Neuropathology, investigates the potential link between exposure to Aspergillus versicolor, a fungal bioaerosol, and Alzheimer's disease (AD) development. The study investigates A. versicolor exposure in mice and the induction of pulmonary inflammation and immune responses. The project aims to unravel the underlying mechanisms of these responses, focusing on IL-5, HMGB1, and TREM2 and exploring their roles in the Th2 lung–brain axis. Data show that A. versicolor increases Aβ plaque numbers and alters plaque-associated TREM2 and microglia in the 5xFAD mouse model of AD. Implications extend to identifying key mechanisms involved in the lung–brain axis that may contribute to AD development, providing potential targets for intervention. A comprehensive approach, including genetic modifications and antibody treatments, explores the proposed connections between environmental exposures and AD pathogenesis. Requested supports cover research management, including a project manager and admin assistant, and software tools (Lab Guru, 15/Five). These adjustments are integral to mitigating Dr. Block's recent autoimmune diagnoses, enhancing project success without altering the original scope.

Key facts

NIH application ID
11002530
Project number
3R01AG076142-03S1
Recipient
INDIANA UNIVERSITY INDIANAPOLIS
Principal Investigator
Michelle L Block
Activity code
R01
Funding institute
NIH
Fiscal year
2024
Award amount
$41,000
Award type
3
Project period
2022-02-01 → 2024-06-24