Aakash Nukala
Class of 2026
About
Projects
- "CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Therapy to Treat Alzheimer's Disease" with mentor Hanan (Working project)
Project Portfolio
CRISPR/Cas9 Gene Therapy to Treat Alzheimer's Disease
Started Oct. 2, 2024
Abstract or project description
Aakash is working on a review paper exploring the potential of gene editing as a treatment strategy for Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). His paper will provide a comprehensive overview of AD, including its pathophysiology, prevalence, and limitations of current treatments. He examines key gene editing technologies, such as CRISPR/Cas9, and their applications in neurodegenerative diseases, with a particular focus on targeting genetic risk factors and pathological markers like amyloid-beta and tau proteins. The review will delve into strategies aimed at modifying AD-associated genes, such as APP and APOE4, to reduce amyloid plaques and lower AD risk. Additionally, Aakash will discuss the current limitations of gene editing, including delivery challenges and safety concerns. His goal is to highlight both the therapeutic promise and the technical challenges that gene editing presents for advancing AD treatment.