Investigating 17 alpha-estradiol as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease

17 alpha-estradiol as a potential protective therapeutic against development of Alzheimer's disease

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-10930827

This study is looking at how a substance called 17 alpha-estradiol might help protect against aging and Alzheimer's disease, especially for people with a specific gene that increases their risk, using mice to see how it works.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10930827 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the effects of 17 alpha-estradiol (17αE2) on aging and Alzheimer's disease, particularly in individuals with the APOE4 genotype, which is a significant risk factor for developing the disease. The study will utilize mouse models to assess how 17αE2 may protect against age-related changes that contribute to Alzheimer's pathology. By examining both systemic and neural impacts of this treatment, the research aims to identify potential benefits for both male and female mice with different APOE genotypes. The findings could provide insights into new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with the APOE4 genotype or those at risk for Alzheimer's disease due to aging.

Not a fit: Patients without the APOE4 genotype or those who do not exhibit risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new protective therapies for individuals at risk of developing Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar approaches, particularly in animal models, but this specific application of 17αE2 is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementia
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.