Investigating the role of a specific enzyme in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Roles of the glycogen synthase kinase 3 alpha isoform in Alzheimers disease pathophysiology
Funded at Wake Forest University Health Sciences · NIH-10672556 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called GSK3α affects memory problems in Alzheimer's disease, and it will test new medications that might help by blocking this enzyme to find better treatments for people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Wake Forest University Health Sciences NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Winston-Salem, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,625,487 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG082388-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10672556 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 it due to age or genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the glycogen synthase kinase 3 alpha (GSK3α) enzyme contributes to the development of Alzheimer's disease (AD). By using genetic techniques to selectively suppress GSK3α in animal models of AD, the researchers aim to uncover its specific roles in cognitive impairment associated with the disease. Additionally, they will test new drugs that specifically inhibit GSK3α to evaluate their potential as therapeutic options. This approach could lead to a better understanding of AD and the development of targeted treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new, more effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease that specifically target the underlying molecular mechanisms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting GSK3 in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights and advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Wake Forest University Health Sciences
Winston-Salem, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ma, Tao — Wake Forest University Health Sciences
- Study coordinator: Ma, Tao
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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.