Investigating new treatments for Alzheimer's disease using small molecules to target a specific enzyme.
Official title: Small Molecule Degraders of Tryptophan 2,3-Dioxygenase Enzyme (TDO) as Novel Treatments for Neurodegenerative Disease
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-10991314 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with Alzheimer's by targeting a specific enzyme in the brain that produces harmful substances, with the hope that a new treatment could make a positive difference for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $47,694 |
| NIH project number | 5F31AG084329-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10991314 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases other than Alzheimer's or those with non-neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative treatments for Alzheimer's disease by targeting the tryptophan 2,3-dioxygenase (TDO) enzyme, which is involved in the production of neurotoxic metabolites that may contribute to the disease. The approach involves using small molecules to destabilize a non-catalytic binding site on the TDO enzyme, potentially reducing the harmful effects of these metabolites in the brain. By regulating the biosynthesis of these neurotoxins, the research aims to provide a new therapeutic strategy for patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease. Patients may benefit from this research if the new treatment proves effective in clinical settings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a novel treatment that addresses the underlying causes of Alzheimer's disease rather than just alleviating symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting the kynurenine pathway is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Trombley, Trevor — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Trombley, Trevor
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.