Investigating how fructose metabolism affects brain immune cells in aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Does GLUT5-mediated Fructose Metabolism drive Microglial Dysfunction in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease?
Funded at University of Colorado Denver · NIH-11053814 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the way our brains process fructose might affect brain health, especially in relation to Alzheimer's disease, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with this condition by understanding how certain brain cells behave.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado Denver NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $442,104 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG091650-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053814 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing early symptoms of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia unrelated to metabolic factors may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of fructose metabolism in the brain and its potential impact on microglial function, which is crucial for brain health. Researchers will examine how the fructose transporter GLUT5 influences microglial behavior and its connection to Alzheimer's disease progression. By studying aged mice and analyzing changes in microglial morphology, the team aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to new therapeutic targets for Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from insights that could inform dietary recommendations and treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain health and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in microglia, suggesting that this approach may yield significant insights into Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Colorado Denver
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bruce, Kimberley D — University of Colorado Denver
- Study coordinator: Bruce, Kimberley D
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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.