How aging affects glucose transport in the brain related to Alzheimer's disease
Compromised function of a glial glucose transporter in aging and Alzheimer's disease
This study is looking at how getting older affects the way our brain cells transport sugar, which is important for memory and thinking, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease and type-2 diabetes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Little Rock, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11034047 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how aging impacts the function of glucose transporters in the brain, particularly in relation to Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2D). The study focuses on astrocytes, which are cells that help transport glucose from the bloodstream to neurons. Researchers will examine the defects in glucose transport proteins in both aging mice and human brains, comparing normal aging with conditions like AD and T2D. The goal is to understand how the accumulation of beta-amyloid peptide affects glucose utilization in the brain, which is crucial for memory and cognitive functions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who are experiencing cognitive decline or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not exhibit any signs of cognitive impairment or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving brain glucose metabolism in aging individuals and those with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeting glucose metabolism in the brain can lead to improvements in cognitive function, suggesting that this approach may hold promise.
Where this research is happening
Little Rock, United States
- Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis — Little Rock, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barger, Steven W — Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
- Study coordinator: Barger, Steven W
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.