Finding new uses for existing drugs to treat Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias
Official title: Systematically screening and validating drug repurposing candidates for Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias
Funded at Vanderbilt University Medical Center · NIH-11052028 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for already approved medications that could be used to help treat Alzheimer's and related dementias, so patients can get access to new treatments more quickly and easily.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $874,857 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG084550-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11052028 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias who are seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage cognitive impairment or those without a formal diagnosis of Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to systematically screen and validate existing drugs that could be repurposed to treat Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (AD/ADRD). By leveraging large datasets, including genetic information and electronic health records, the study seeks to identify promising drug candidates more efficiently than traditional methods. The approach focuses on overcoming the limitations of previous drug development efforts, which have often failed due to a lack of comprehensive biological understanding and predictive models. Patients may benefit from faster access to effective treatments derived from already approved medications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options for Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias, potentially improving patient outcomes and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in drug repurposing for other conditions, suggesting that this approach could be effective for Alzheimer's Disease and related dementias as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wei, Wei-Qi — Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Wei, Wei-Qi
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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.