NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease using mixed receptor modulators

Official title: Dopamine and Sigma Receptor Mixed Modulators for the Treatment of Alzheimer's Disease

Funded at Southern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville · NIH-11101297 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease using a small molecule called AM73, which might help improve brain function and behavior in mice, with hopes that it could lead to better options for people living with Alzheimer's.

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Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionSouthern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Edwardsville, United States)
Project startJune 4, 2024
Project endApril 30, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$144,500
NIH project number5R16NS140308-02
Project IDNIH-11101297 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 65 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Less likely to help

Patients under the age of 65 or those without cognitive decline or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease (AD) by exploring a small molecule called AM73 that targets specific brain receptors involved in cognitive decline. The study will evaluate the effects of chronic treatment with AM73 in a mouse model, assessing its impact on behavior and brain function. By analyzing changes in key brain regions associated with AD, the research aims to provide insights into how this novel approach could improve symptoms of the disease. The findings could lead to new therapeutic options for patients suffering from Alzheimer's.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option that improves cognitive function and quality of life for Alzheimer's patients.

How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using mixed receptor modulators is novel, similar studies targeting brain receptors have shown promise in other neurological conditions.

Where this research is happening

  • Southern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville
    Edwardsville, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Witt, Ken a — Southern Illinois Univ at Edwardsville
  • Study coordinator: Witt, Ken a

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.