How β-hydroxybutyrate affects Alzheimer's disease

ß-hydroxybutyrate inhibition of pathology in Alzheimer's disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-10893476

This study is looking at how a substance called β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), which comes from fat metabolism, might help improve thinking and memory in people with Alzheimer's disease by changing how the brain works and reducing inflammation, and it will also explore how gut bacteria might play a role in this process.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10893476 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the effects of β-hydroxybutyrate (BHB), a metabolite produced during fat metabolism, on Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. The study aims to understand how BHB can improve cognitive function in individuals with AD by altering brain metabolism and inhibiting inflammatory processes. Researchers will explore the relationship between gut microbiota and BHB levels, using animal models to assess the impact of BHB on AD-related brain changes. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could enhance cognitive health in older adults with Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients under the age of 65 or those without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with ketogenic diets and BHB supplementation in improving cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients, indicating a potential for success in this research.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.