Unlocking the Alzheimer’s Puzzle: How Microglia and ADGRG1 Could Transform Brain Health in Arizona
Jul 27, 2025
At the Center for Neurology and Spine (CNS) — a leading neurology clinic in Phoenix — our mission is to bring the latest scientific breakthroughs into real-world care. As Arizona's population continues to age, Alzheimer’s disease treatment in Arizona is more critical than ever. Now, thanks to new research into the brain’s immune system, we’re closer to a breakthrough that may revolutionize dementia care.
Recent findings published in Nature Neuroscience and covered by Neuroscience News reveal the significant role of a brain immune cell receptor known as ADGRG1, and its interaction with microglia, in potentially slowing Alzheimer’s progression by clearing harmful tau proteins.
This blog explores what this means for you, your loved ones, and how CNS — your trusted neurologist in Phoenix AZ — is advancing care for neurodegenerative disease in Arizona.
Microglia are the immune cells of the brain. Often referred to as the brain’s first responders, they help identify and clear debris, toxins, and damaged neurons. In the context of Alzheimer’s disease, these cells play a key role in responding to the buildup of abnormal tau proteins and amyloid plaques that damage neurons.
In a healthy brain, microglia help maintain spine and brain health in Phoenix residents by performing vital cleanup functions. But when Alzheimer’s disease develops, microglia become overwhelmed or dysfunctional, accelerating brain atrophy and cognitive decline.
The new research pinpoints ADGRG1, a G protein-coupled receptor (GPCR), as a master regulator that enables microglia to more efficiently internalize and break down tau proteins — one of the hallmarks of Alzheimer’s disease.
Key study takeaways:
Blocking ADGRG1 expression in microglia led to reduced tau uptake and more brain damage.
Activating ADGRG1 restored microglial function and tau clearance.
These findings suggest that modulating ADGRG1 may offer a neuroprotective therapy for Alzheimer’s.
As dementia specialists in Arizona, we see daily the toll that Alzheimer’s takes. Treatments that target underlying pathology rather than symptoms are urgently needed — and this breakthrough represents hope.
Phoenix has one of the fastest-growing senior populations in the country, making Phoenix Alzheimer’s research and care a priority. At CNS, we recognize that early intervention and access to cutting-edge science are essential.
Whether you’re looking for a memory clinic in Phoenix, Alzheimer’s disease treatment in Arizona, or advanced neurodiagnostic testing in Arizona, CNS is committed to providing the highest level of care and offering access to promising clinical trials.
This discovery aligns directly with our clinical goals:
Detect early cognitive changes
Delay disease progression
Support families with education and resources
Advance clinical research in neurodegenerative disorders
We are proud to participate in ongoing Arizona neurology research studies on Alzheimer’s and related disorders. Our Phoenix neurology center is actively enrolling patients in trials that explore innovative treatments for:
Alzheimer’s and related dementias
Mild cognitive impairment (MCI)
Tauopathies
Neuroinflammation and aging
These research opportunities help ensure that CNS patients — and families across Arizona — benefit from tomorrow’s therapies today.