How a glucose byproduct affects nerve function in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Disruption of Excitable Axonal Domains by Glucose Metabolite Methylglyoxal
Funded at Wright State University · NIH-10443534 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called methylglyoxal, which comes from how our bodies process sugar, can harm important parts of nerve cells that help send signals in the brain, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes, with the hope of finding new ways to improve brain function and memory.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wright State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dayton, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2019 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $341,622 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS107398-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10443534 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or type 2 diabetes who are experiencing cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how methylglyoxal, a byproduct of glucose metabolism, disrupts critical areas of nerve cells known as axons, which are essential for transmitting signals in the brain. The study aims to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms behind this disruption, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease and type 2 diabetes. By exploring the role of calpains, enzymes that may be activated by methylglyoxal, the researchers hope to identify potential therapeutic targets that could restore normal nerve function. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new treatments for cognitive impairments associated with these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for improving cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease and diabetes-related cognitive decline.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of targeting methylglyoxal in this context is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding the role of metabolic byproducts in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Wright State University
Dayton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Susuki, Keiichiro — Wright State University
- Study coordinator: Susuki, Keiichiro
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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.