Investigating a receptor target for treating Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Sigma 1 receptor as therapeutic target for Alzheimers disease treatment
Funded at Ut Southwestern Medical Center · NIH-10901028 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a special brain receptor that might help protect brain cells and improve brain health for people with Alzheimer's, and it hopes to find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2023 |
| Project end | September 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $700,007 |
| NIH project number | 1R56AG078337-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901028 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 at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Alzheimer's or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the sigma 1 receptor (S1R) and its potential as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand how activating S1R can protect neurons and promote resilience in the brain, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's. Researchers will explore the mechanisms behind these protective effects, including the role of cholesterol in neuronal health. The findings could lead to new treatments that enhance brain function in individuals with Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative therapies that improve cognitive function and quality of life for Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar approaches targeting the sigma 1 receptor in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Ut Southwestern Medical Center
Dallas, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Malter, James S — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Malter, James S
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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.