Improving memory and cognitive function in older adults by boosting a brain peptide called adropin
Official title: Methods for treating aging-related cognitive decline and reducing risk of AD/ADRD by enhancing the endogenous expression of adropin
Funded at Saint Louis University · NIH-10877508 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a way to boost a brain chemical called adropin to help older adults keep their memory and thinking skills sharp as they age, with the hope of making it easier for them to stay independent.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Saint Louis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $416,625 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087308-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877508 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those showing early signs of cognitive decline or at risk for dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 21 or those with advanced stages of cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the levels of adropin, a peptide found in the brain, to combat cognitive decline associated with aging. The study aims to develop a new therapy using antisense oligonucleotides to increase the expression of the gene responsible for adropin production. By understanding how adropin functions at a cellular level, the research seeks to create pharmacotherapies that can help older adults maintain their cognitive abilities for longer. This could potentially allow elderly individuals to remain independent and reduce the burden of care for those experiencing memory impairment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help older adults maintain cognitive function and independence as they age.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using adropin to protect against cognitive decline in animal models, indicating potential for success in human applications.
Where this research is happening
-
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Butler, Andrew Alistair — Saint Louis University
- Study coordinator: Butler, Andrew Alistair
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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.