Investigating new treatments for cognitive decline in dementia
Official title: Screening for Nuclear Receptor TLX ligands
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11134776 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new compounds that could help boost brain cell growth and improve thinking skills in people with dementia, like Alzheimer's, by activating a specific receptor in the brain, with the hope of finding better treatments for cognitive decline.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $380,434 |
| NIH project number | 4R33NS133955-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134776 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who are experiencing cognitive decline or have been diagnosed with dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients under the age of 65 or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing synthetic compounds that activate the TLX nuclear receptor, which may enhance the growth of new neurons in the brain and improve cognitive function in individuals with dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The project involves creating and validating laboratory tests to identify these potential therapeutic agents. By screening for high-affinity TLX ligands, the research aims to lay the groundwork for future drug development that could lead to effective treatments for cognitive impairment. Patients may benefit from advancements in therapies targeting cognitive decline as a result of this work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function in patients with dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting nuclear receptors for cognitive enhancement, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burris, Thomas P — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Burris, Thomas P
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.