Investigating a treatment for Alzheimer's disease using a specific immune stimulant

Phase II trial of GM-CSF/sargramostim in Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research University of Colorado Denver · NIH-10534753

This study is looking at whether a treatment called GM-CSF can help improve thinking and daily activities for people with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease, based on some interesting findings about its effects on the immune system.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Colorado Denver NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-10534753 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the use of Granulocyte-Macrophage Colony-Stimulating Factor (GM-CSF), also known as sargramostim, as a potential treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The approach is based on findings that patients with rheumatoid arthritis have a lower risk of developing Alzheimer's, possibly due to the effects of GM-CSF on the immune system and brain health. The study aims to assess the safety and efficacy of this treatment in improving cognitive function and daily living activities in individuals with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease. Participants will receive GM-CSF to evaluate its impact on their cognitive abilities and overall quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with mild-to-moderate Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients with severe Alzheimer's disease or those with contraindications to GM-CSF may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment option that improves cognitive function and daily living activities for patients with Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with GM-CSF in other neurological conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Aurora, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.