Exploring the use of FGF21 to treat Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Therapeutic Potential of FGF21 for Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr · NIH-11295262 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a substance called FGF21 can help improve problems related to metabolism and memory in people with Alzheimer's disease, using animal models to see if it can slow down brain damage and ease symptoms, which could lead to new treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $488,913 |
| NIH project number | 7R01AG083950-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11295262 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing early symptoms of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of fibroblast growth factor 21 (FGF21) as a treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD), a progressive neurodegenerative condition that leads to cognitive decline. The study focuses on understanding how FGF21 can improve metabolic dysfunctions associated with AD, which may contribute to cognitive impairment. By utilizing animal models, the research aims to determine whether FGF21 can prevent neurodegeneration and alleviate symptoms of AD. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research that could lead to new therapeutic options for managing Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a novel treatment approach that slows the progression of Alzheimer's disease and improves cognitive function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in using metabolic pathways to address cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach may hold potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Potthoff, Matthew Joseph — University of Oklahoma Hlth Sciences Ctr
- Study coordinator: Potthoff, Matthew Joseph
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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.