How exercise helps brain cells in Alzheimer's disease
Exercise-Induced Mitophagy In Hippocampal Neurons Against AD
This study is looking at how exercise, like running or lifting weights, can help improve brain health for people with Alzheimer's by helping their brain cells get rid of damaged parts, and it hopes to find new ways to use exercise as a treatment for the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Blacksburg, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10772182 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how exercise, such as running or weightlifting, can improve brain health in individuals with Alzheimer's disease by promoting the removal of damaged mitochondria in brain cells. The study focuses on a protein called AMPK, which plays a crucial role in energy regulation and is activated during exercise. By understanding the mechanisms behind exercise-induced mitophagy, the research aims to uncover how physical activity can protect against the harmful effects of Alzheimer's. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new exercise-based therapies for Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those unable to engage in physical activity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new exercise-based therapies that improve brain health and cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that exercise can have significant benefits for brain health, suggesting that this approach may be promising.
Where this research is happening
Blacksburg, United States
- Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ — Blacksburg, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Zhen — Virginia Polytechnic Inst and St Univ
- Study coordinator: Yan, Zhen
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.