Genetically Driven Lipid Dysfunction and Neuroinflammation: An Agent-Based Model of Alzheimer’s Disease

Presentation Year

2026

College or Department

College of Natural Resources & Sciences

Short Description of your Research or Creative Project (700 characters or less)

Microglia are immune cells in the brain that switch phenotypes to maintain neural health, but disruptions in this regulation may contribute to Alzheimer’s Disease (AD). We developed an agent-based model to link cell mechanisms to tissue-level patterns, incorporating both individual cell responses to localized signaling and the effects of APOE and TREM2 variants on microglial metabolism and clearance. Through computational experiments, we simulate how impaired lipid clearance and sensing lead to a pro-inflammatory microglial population and chronic inflammation. Our framework offers insight into how local dysfunction progresses to persistent neuroinflammation and promotes conditions like AD.

Permission to Publish Work

Yes

Presentation File Upload

mathematics-data-science-wolfe-anthony-202745-3x4.pdf (1.12 MB)

Primary Contact: First Name

Anthony

Primary Contact: Last Name

Wolfe

Primary Contact: Email

aw399@humboldt.edu

Primary Contact: I am a

Undergraduate Student

Primary Contact: Phone Number

5623887458

Indicate File Dimensions

4'x3'