Investigating a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease using a modified erythropoietin.
Official title: Efficacy, safety, and mechanisms of brain penetrable erythropoietin in Alzheimer’s disease mouse models
Funded at Chapman University · NIH-11098523 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new version of a treatment that helps brain cells in people with Alzheimer's disease by using a special method to get it into the brain safely, and it's being done with mice to see how well it works.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Chapman University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Orange, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $335,160 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG085724-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11098523 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research would be individuals with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those with contraindications to erythropoietin therapy may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a modified form of erythropoietin (EPO) that can effectively cross the blood-brain barrier to treat Alzheimer's disease. The approach involves fusing EPO with a monoclonal antibody that facilitates its entry into the brain while minimizing side effects. By targeting pathways involved in Alzheimer's progression, this treatment aims to protect and potentially regenerate neurons, addressing cognitive decline. The research utilizes mouse models to evaluate the efficacy and safety of this innovative therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new therapeutic option that not only slows down Alzheimer's disease progression but also promotes neuronal recovery.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using modified biologics for central nervous system diseases, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Chapman University
Orange, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sumbria, Rachita — Chapman University
- Study coordinator: Sumbria, Rachita
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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.