Improving body clocks to help prevent Alzheimer's disease

Optimized Circadian Rhythms for the Prevention of Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research Salk Institute for Biological Studies · NIH-10875730

This study is looking at how changes in our body clocks might play a role in Alzheimer's disease, using fruit flies to see if getting their eating habits in sync with day and night can help keep them healthier and possibly slow down the disease, which could lead to new ideas for helping people at risk for Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSalk Institute for Biological Studies NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10875730 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how disruptions in our natural body clocks, known as circadian rhythms, may contribute to the development of Alzheimer's disease. By studying fruit flies, researchers will explore the connection between circadian rhythm disruption and Alzheimer's pathology, aiming to understand how restoring these rhythms could delay the onset and progression of the disease. The study will utilize time-restricted feeding to help synchronize the flies' feeding patterns with daylight hours, which may improve their overall health and function. The findings could provide insights into potential interventions for humans at risk of Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or have early signs of cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have any circadian rhythm disruptions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or delaying Alzheimer's disease through lifestyle changes that optimize circadian rhythms.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of circadian rhythms in various health conditions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights for Alzheimer's prevention.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.