Investigating how kynurenic acid affects cognitive function in older adults
Role of kynurenic acid in higher cognitive deficits: Mechanism and treatment strategies
This study is looking at how a substance called kynurenic acid might affect memory and thinking as we get older, especially in people with Alzheimer's, and it hopes to find new ways to help improve these cognitive issues by using aged monkeys to learn more about how it works in the brain.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10715487 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of kynurenic acid, a byproduct of tryptophan metabolism, in impairing cognitive functions as people age, particularly in those with Alzheimer's Disease. The study will analyze how increased kynurenine signaling affects brain receptors involved in memory and cognition, using aged rhesus monkeys as a model. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify potential treatments that could reverse cognitive deficits by inhibiting kynurenine metabolism and enhancing cholinergic actions in the brain.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults, especially those diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease or experiencing cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients who are younger or do not have cognitive impairments related to aging or Alzheimer's Disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that improve cognitive function in older adults, particularly those suffering from Alzheimer's Disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of kynurenine in cognitive decline, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Min — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Wang, Min
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 below.