Investigating how insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome affect Alzheimer's disease in a primate model

Neuropathology and inflammation in a nonhuman primate model of insulin resistance/metabolic syndrome

NIH-funded research University of California at Davis · NIH-11030245

This study is looking at how problems with insulin and metabolism might affect brain health and increase the risk of Alzheimer's disease, using monkeys on a high-sugar diet to see what happens over a year.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California at Davis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Davis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11030245 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores the connection between insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and the risk of developing Alzheimer's disease using a nonhuman primate model. The study involves feeding the primates a high sugar diet to induce metabolic dysfunction and then examining the resulting changes in brain health and behavior over a year. Researchers will utilize advanced imaging techniques and molecular analyses to understand how these metabolic conditions contribute to dementia and vice versa. The goal is to uncover the underlying mechanisms linking these health issues to better inform future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, or type-2 diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have metabolic syndrome or insulin resistance, or those under 21 years old, may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease in individuals with metabolic syndrome or insulin resistance.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the links between metabolic disorders and cognitive decline, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.

Where this research is happening

Davis, 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 2026-06-10 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.