Investigating a cancer drug for treating memory loss in Frontotemporal dementia
Official title: Assessment of the therapeutic potential of the anticancer agent Silmitasertib in the treatment of memory loss in Frontotemporal dementia
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-10887293 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a cancer-fighting drug called Silmitasertib can help improve memory loss and other symptoms in people with Frontotemporal dementia, a type of dementia that affects personality and behavior.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $310,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AG087281-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10887293 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Frontotemporal dementia, particularly those experiencing significant memory loss.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or those without memory loss related to Frontotemporal dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the potential of Silmitasertib, an anticancer agent, to improve memory loss associated with Frontotemporal dementia (FTD). FTD is a rare form of dementia characterized by changes in personality, behavior, and cognition due to neurodegeneration in specific brain areas. The study aims to understand how Silmitasertib may affect the underlying mechanisms of neurodegeneration and behavioral changes in FTD patients. By examining its effects on protein aggregation and synaptic dysfunction, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies for this currently untreatable condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option that improves the quality of life for patients suffering from Frontotemporal dementia.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of anticancer agents for neurodegenerative diseases is a novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar contexts, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gomez-Pastor, Rocio — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Gomez-Pastor, Rocio
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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.