NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Investigating a peptide's role in reversing Alzheimer's neurodegeneration

Official title: Role of the CX3CL1 C-terminus in reversing age-dependent Alzheimers neurodegeneration

Funded at University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt · NIH-10594845 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a special protein that might help protect brain cells and improve thinking skills in people with Alzheimer's by reducing stress on those cells, and researchers hope it could lead to new treatments for the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Farmington, United States)
Project startDecember 15, 2022
Project endNovember 30, 2025
Funding year2023
Award (this year)$2,132,716
NIH project number2RF1AG058261-03
Project IDNIH-10594845 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those showing early signs of cognitive decline.

Less likely to help

Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or other forms of dementia who are not yet experiencing significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how a specific peptide derived from the CX3CL1 protein can help reverse neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to explore the peptide's ability to reduce cellular stress and promote neuroprotection, potentially improving cognitive functions in patients. By examining the effects of this peptide on neuronal cells, researchers hope to identify new therapeutic strategies that not only target amyloid plaques but also enhance neural health. The approach involves pre-clinical testing to evaluate the peptide's effectiveness in mitigating the harmful effects of Alzheimer's pathology.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar peptides for neuroprotection, indicating a potential for success in this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
    Farmington, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Yan, Riqiang — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
  • Study coordinator: Yan, Riqiang

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.