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Translational Capabilities: Next-generation animal models (Milestone 4.A)

Achieved

Timeline Start - End

2016 - 2022

Research Implementation Area

Translational Tools, Infrastructure, and Capabilities

Support the development of the next generation of animal models based on the current understanding of genetic and environmental risk and protective factors for AD and related dementias, using genome editing and other cutting edge technologies (optogenetics/deep brain stimulation/trans-magnetic stimulation, and next generation in vivo imaging) to facilitate assessment and validation of findings from human studies.


Success Criteria

  • Develop and characterize by deep molecular, behavioral, electrophysiologic and neuropathologic phenotyping at least 12 next generation animal models of sporadic AD/ADRD and make these available to all qualified researchers without IP restrictions for use in basic research and in preclinical drug development.

Summary of Key Accomplishments

Established through a targeted funding initiative, the NIA-supported MODEL-AD Centers have generated over 40 new mouse models, based on genetic factors for late-onset AD. The two Centers are using cutting edge technologies to assess how closely these new models reflect various features of the disease in humans (molecular, biochemical, pathological, behavioral). These new animal models are critical tools for investigating the biological mechanisms of the disease and for preclinical drug development.

All data and mouse models generated by the MODEL-AD Centers are being made available rapidly to researchers in academia and in the biotech/pharmaceutical industry sector without any intellectual property (IP) restrictions.

The key accomplishments summary is current as of March 2022. 

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