Finding drugs that activate the brain protein TLX to support memory
Screening for Nuclear Receptor TLX ligands
Researchers are developing lab tests to find drugs that activate TLX, a brain receptor that may boost memory in older adults with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11348263 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are creating and validating lab assays to identify molecules that turn on TLX, a protein involved in making new neurons in the hippocampus. The project will refine in vitro tests so they reliably pick out promising TLX-activating compounds. After validation, those assays will be used to screen chemical libraries to find high-affinity TLX agonists as starting points for drug development. These are preclinical laboratory steps aimed at producing candidates for future clinical testing, not treatments you would receive now.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Older adults with Alzheimer's disease or other dementias who are experiencing memory decline could eventually be eligible for clinical trials of TLX-activating drugs.
Not a fit: People without cognitive impairment or those with very advanced, end-stage dementia are unlikely to benefit from these early drug-discovery efforts.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, TLX-activating drugs could stimulate new neuron growth in the hippocampus and potentially improve memory and thinking in people with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Preclinical studies show TLX supports adult hippocampal neurogenesis, but high-affinity synthetic TLX agonists are largely novel and have not yet been tested in humans.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burris, Thomas P — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Burris, Thomas P
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.