How the ketone beta-hydroxybutyrate may reduce tau buildup in Alzheimer's
Mechanisms by which the ketone body β-hydroxybutyrate counteracts tau pathogenesis
Seeing if the ketone molecule beta-hydroxybutyrate (from ketogenic diets or supplements) can reduce tau protein spread and protect brain cells in people with early Alzheimer's disease.
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-11298974 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project looks at how the ketone body beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) affects the tau protein that spreads through the brain in Alzheimer's. Researchers will use cultured brain cells and mouse models to separate BHB's roles as an energy source from its signaling effects on neurons. They will measure whether BHB reduces tau secretion from neurons and helps cells clear tau through the autophagy–endolysosomal pathway. By pinning down the exact molecular steps, the team aims to guide safer, more targeted ketone-based therapies for people with tau-related dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment likely due to Alzheimer's who are interested in ketone-based approaches.
Not a fit: People with late-stage Alzheimer's, other non-Alzheimer dementias, or medical conditions that prevent use of ketogenic diets or ketone supplements may not benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to more targeted ketone-based treatments that slow tau spread and help preserve memory in people with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Animal studies and small early human trials have reported memory benefits from ketogenic approaches, but the exact effects on tau protein are not yet proven.
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.