A brain-penetrating form of erythropoietin aimed at treating Alzheimer’s disease
Efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of brain penetrable erythropoietin in Alzheimer’s disease mouse models
They are developing a modified erythropoietin that can enter the brain to protect nerve cells and help people with Alzheimer’s disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Chapman University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orange, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11300964 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers have attached erythropoietin (EPO) to an antibody that uses the transferrin receptor to cross the blood-brain barrier so more drug reaches the brain. In laboratory work with Alzheimer’s mouse models, the team gives this TfR‑antibody‑EPO fusion and measures effects on neuron survival, amyloid and tau pathology, and memory-related behaviors. They compare the fusion to regular EPO to check whether it reduces blood-related side effects while providing stronger brain benefits. The findings will be used to understand how the drug works and whether it is safe enough to consider future human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with Alzheimer's disease, especially those in early or mild stages who might be eligible for future clinical trials, would be the eventual candidates for this approach.
Not a fit: People without Alzheimer’s or those with very advanced, widespread brain damage are unlikely to benefit from this approach as tested in these early lab studies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to a treatment that protects brain cells and slows or reverses cognitive decline in people with Alzheimer's while minimizing blood-related side effects.
How similar studies have performed: Related brain-delivery approaches and EPO treatments have shown promise in animal models but have not yet been proven safe and effective in people.
Where this research is happening
Orange, United States
- Chapman University — Orange, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sumbria, Rachita — Chapman University
- Study coordinator: Sumbria, Rachita
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.