How a ketone body may help reduce tau protein spread in Alzheimer's disease
Mechanisms by which the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate counteracts tau pathogenesis
This study is looking at how a substance called β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which comes from a ketogenic diet, might help slow down Alzheimer's disease by stopping the harmful spread of tau protein in the brain, and it's for anyone interested in new ways to treat Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11037928 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) may slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease by reducing the spread of tau protein, which is linked to neurodegeneration. The study aims to understand the cellular and molecular mechanisms through which BHB operates, including its role as an energy source and a signaling molecule. By conducting experiments on both animal models and cultured neurons, the researchers hope to identify the most effective components of a ketogenic diet for treating Alzheimer's. This knowledge could lead to more targeted and effective therapies for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's or related dementias may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease, potentially improving memory and slowing disease progression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with ketogenic diets in improving memory in early Alzheimer's patients, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chen, Xu — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Chen, Xu
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.