Investigating how fructose metabolism affects brain immune cells in aging and Alzheimer's disease

Does GLUT5-mediated Fructose Metabolism drive Microglial Dysfunction in Aging and Alzheimer's Disease?

['FUNDING_R21'] · UNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER · NIH-11053814

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

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF COLORADO DENVER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11053814 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing early symptoms of cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or other forms of dementia unrelated to metabolic factors may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease neuropathogenesis, Alzheimer's disease pathology

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.