Investigating how a new compound affects brain health and iron balance in neurodegenerative diseases.
Official title: A Mechanistic Foundation for the Iron Homeostasis Impacts and Neurotrophic Activity of trans-Banglene
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10984777 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a small molecule called trans-banglene (t-BG) might help improve brain health and manage symptoms in people with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's by promoting brain cell growth and balancing iron levels.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $385,968 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG083334-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10984777 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those with the APOE ε4 allele.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to Alzheimer's or those without the APOE ε4 allele may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a small molecule called trans-banglene (t-BG) can influence brain health and iron levels in patients with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study aims to explore how t-BG interacts with brain cells and its potential to promote cell survival and growth. By examining its effects on iron-binding proteins and neurotrophic responses, the researchers hope to uncover new insights into treating conditions that currently have limited therapeutic options. Patients may benefit from this research if t-BG proves effective in improving brain function and managing symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain health and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific compound t-BG is novel, similar approaches targeting neurotrophic factors and iron homeostasis have shown promise in other studies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Williams, Florence Judith — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Williams, Florence Judith
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.