Investigating a new treatment approach for Alzheimer's Disease using small molecule inhibitors.
Official title: NOX2 Small Molecule Inhibitors as a Therapeutic Strategy in the Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-11177820 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment that uses small molecules to block a protein in the brain that affects blood flow and inflammation, which could help slow down Alzheimer's Disease by reducing harmful proteins that build up in the brain, and it aims to see how this treatment changes brain function and structure.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $238,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG089718-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11177820 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation would include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or related dementias, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Alzheimer's or those in advanced stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing small molecule inhibitors that target a specific protein involved in regulating blood flow and inflammation in the brain, which are believed to contribute to the progression of Alzheimer's Disease (AD). By inhibiting this protein, the study aims to reduce the harmful effects of amyloid beta and tau protein accumulation, which are key factors in AD pathology. Patients may benefit from this innovative approach as it seeks to address not only the symptoms but also the underlying mechanisms of the disease. The research will involve advanced imaging techniques to monitor changes in brain function and structure in response to the treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new therapeutic strategy that slows the progression of Alzheimer's Disease and improves cognitive function in affected individuals.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting inflammation and blood flow in Alzheimer's Disease is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar therapeutic strategies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pagano, Patrick J — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Pagano, Patrick J
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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.