Blocking a brain enzyme to reduce inflammation and damage in Alzheimer's
Knockin mouse models of Alzheimer's Disease
['FUNDING_R01'] · BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11321180
This project looks at whether stopping a brain enzyme called sEH can lower inflammation, reduce amyloid build-up, and improve memory in people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11321180 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
The team studies an enzyme called soluble epoxide hydrolase (sEH) that is higher in astrocytes of Alzheimer's brains by using mouse models that carry Alzheimer's genes and examining human postmortem brain tissue. They give mice a small-molecule sEH blocker (TPPU) and compare findings to mice genetically lacking sEH to see effects on brain lipids, inflammation, amyloid plaques, and memory-related behavior. The researchers will also explore how astrocyte sEH communicates with microglia and how brain blood vessels and other lipid pathways are involved. Findings are intended to guide whether blocking sEH could be tested as a treatment in future human trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Older adults with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those in early stages, would be the most likely candidates for treatments based on this work.
Not a fit: People with very advanced dementia, non-amyloid dementias, or conditions not driven by the pathways studied may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to a new treatment that lowers brain inflammation and slows Alzheimer's progression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous mouse studies found that sEH inhibitors and genetic removal of sEH reduced neuroinflammation, lowered amyloid, and improved cognition, but human effectiveness remains unproven.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ZHENG, HUI — BAYLOR COLLEGE OF MEDICINE
- Study coordinator: ZHENG, HUI
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.