Drug that boosts the brain's cleanup system to help insulin signaling and reduce aging changes in Alzheimer's
Effect of small molecule activator of autophagy on insulin signaling, senescence, and neuropathology in mouse models of Alzheimer's disease
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY · NIH-11237610
Testing a small drug that turns on the brain's waste‑removal pathway to try to help people with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MIAMI, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11237610 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers are developing a small molecule called TPI-132 that activates TFEB, a master switch for the autophagy-lysosome cleanup system in brain cells. In the lab they will use mouse models of Alzheimer's to see if turning on this cleanup system improves insulin signaling, lowers cellular aging signs, and reduces hallmark brain changes like tangles. Early lab tests show TPI-132 can reverse cell aging signals but so far it does not get into the brain well, so the team will study how it works and how to improve brain delivery. The goal is to learn whether a drug that boosts autophagy could one day help people with Alzheimer's symptoms or slow disease processes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with Alzheimer's disease—particularly those in early or mild stages—would be the most likely candidates for related future trials.
Not a fit: Those with very advanced Alzheimer's, other forms of dementia not driven by these pathways, or conditions that prevent trial participation may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce aging-related cell damage and multiple Alzheimer’s brain pathologies, potentially protecting thinking and memory.
How similar studies have performed: Previous cell and animal work shows TFEB activation can lower cellular aging markers and improve cognition in models, but brain-penetrant drug versions remain limited and are still being developed.
Where this research is happening
MIAMI, UNITED STATES
- FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY — MIAMI, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: LAKSHMANA, MADEPALLI KRISHNAPPA — FLORIDA INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: LAKSHMANA, MADEPALLI KRISHNAPPA
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.