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USC Center for Personalized Brain Health

Research

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Overview

 

An abstract illustration of a brain and DNA strandsThe interdisciplinary Alzheimer’s disease research at the USC Center for Personalized Brain Health connects neurology with nutrition and genetics as a path to early detection, prevention, and treatment for comprehensive disease impact. A primary focus is the APOE ε4 gene variant, the strongest inherited risk factor for Alzheimer’s, and the biological mechanism that the gene helps regulate, namely the body’s processing of lipids such as fatty acids and cholesterol.

Our precision health efforts foster new imaging techniques and new biological markers to understand the brain of the APOE ε4 carrier, decades before the typical onset of Alzheimer’s disease. We are building AI-driven digital tools for early detection. And we are developing drugs to prevent and treat Alzheimer’s by addressing the brain inflammation seen in APOE ε4 carriers.

Our Innovations For Personalized Brain Health

 

At the USC Center for Personalized Brain Health, we are discovering new biomarkers, innovating in imaging techniques, deploying digital tools for early detection, and developing personalized lifestyle and pharmacological intervention to reduce brain inflammation and slow disease progression.

 

Biomarker Discovery

We’re uncovering biological markers for Alzheimer’s disease and building a pipeline of potential treatments that address inflammation in the brain. First in line is a new drug that has shown promise in lab studies.

DNA data test infographic.

Imaging Innovations

Imaging techniques under development at the Center for Personalized Brain Health may profile Alzheimer’s risk and inform interventions. We’re looking for early brain changes, well before damage starts — and decades before symptoms appear.

Colorful MRI brain scan.

Digital Tools for Early Detection

USC biomedical researchers and engineers are collaborating to develop and deploy advanced technology for early detection. Measuring lapses in the brain’s internal GPS could enable people to get help before Alzheimer’s memory loss sets in.

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Drug Development

The USC Center for Personalized Brain Health is on the cutting edge of Alzheimer’s treatment with its breakthrough drug, BRI-50054. Designed for APOE ε4 carriers, this promising compound boosts brain health by improving lipid processing and reducing inflammation. Born from research into omega-3 fatty acids and the enzyme cPLA2, BRI-50054 is set to transform the future of Alzheimer’s care, offering hope for better cognitive function and a brighter tomorrow for those at risk.

Test tube with pipette dripping down.

Research Highlights

The USC Center for Personalized Brain Health is leading exciting breakthroughs in Alzheimer’s research. By uncovering key factors like brain metabolism and inflammation, they’re developing personalized treatments, such as targeting lipid imbalances and brain energy deficits, that offer new hope for preventing cognitive decline and transforming lives.

Two scientists working in a lab.

Partner with Us in the Fight Against Alzheimer’s

Donors and volunteers are crucial to our mission to understand, prevent, and treat Alzheimer’s disease. The Center for Personalized Brain Health welcomes your involvement in changing the landscape of dementia care.

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