Developing a new treatment approach for Alzheimer's disease using a specific chemical probe.

Optimization of a potent and cell active CK2 chemical probe for Alzheimer's disease therapy

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11178816

This study is looking for new ways to treat Alzheimer's disease by testing a special chemical that targets a protein in the brain, with the hope of slowing down the disease and helping brain cells stay healthy.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11178816 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Alzheimer's disease (AD), a leading cause of dementia in older adults, and aims to discover new treatment options that target the underlying causes of the disease rather than just alleviating symptoms. The team is investigating a chemical probe known as SGC-CK2-1, which targets a protein called casein kinase 2 (CK2) that plays a crucial role in brain function. By exploring how this probe interacts with CK2, the researchers hope to halt the progression of AD and improve neuronal health. The study involves testing the effectiveness and safety of this probe in various models, including human-derived neurons.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment that slows or stops the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting protein kinases for neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.