Investigating how glucose transport affects Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Role of glucose transport in Alzheimer's disease pathogenesis
Funded at Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis · NIH-11054634 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells called astrocytes help supply sugar to nerve cells in people with Alzheimer's disease, using special mice that show similar symptoms, to see if problems with sugar delivery might be linked to memory loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Little Rock, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $382,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG084473-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054634 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with genetic factors such as the ApoE4 variant.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Alzheimer's disease who do not have the ApoE4 genetic variant may not benefit directly from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of glucose transport in Alzheimer's disease (AD) by examining how astrocytes, a type of brain cell, help deliver glucose to neurons. The study uses a genetically modified mouse model that mimics aspects of AD, particularly focusing on the effects of the beta-amyloid peptide on glucose regulation and brain function. Researchers will assess the function of glucose transport proteins in these mice to understand how disruptions in glucose delivery may contribute to memory decline associated with AD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for improving glucose metabolism in the brains of Alzheimer's patients, potentially enhancing cognitive function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting glucose metabolism can have positive effects in models of neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
Little Rock, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Barger, Steven W — Univ of Arkansas for Med Scis
- Study coordinator: Barger, Steven W
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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.