Investigating how blood-derived factors from exercise can protect the brain in Alzheimer's disease

Leveraging mouse and human models to investigate neuroprotective effects of blood-derived exerkines in Alzheimer's disease

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10901031

This study is looking at a special blood factor called Gpld1 to see how it might help protect the brain and improve brain health, especially for older adults, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent Alzheimer's disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10901031 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the neuroprotective effects of a specific blood factor, Glycosylphosphatidylinositol-Specific Phospholipase D1 (Gpld1), which is linked to the benefits of physical activity on brain health. By using both mouse and human models, the study aims to understand how this factor influences brain function and could potentially lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease. The researchers will analyze how Gpld1 interacts with brain proteins and its overall impact on cognitive health in older adults. This approach seeks to uncover novel mechanisms that could support the aging brain and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, particularly those at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that enhance brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease in older adults.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neuroprotective effects of exercise-related factors, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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 2026-06-13 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.