New method to deliver treatments for dementia with Lewy bodies

Novel Systemic Delivery of Peptide-Mediated Anti-Sense Oligonucleotides for Dementia with Lewy Bodies

NIH-funded research University of Southern California · NIH-11230055

This study is exploring a new way to deliver special treatments that can help reduce harmful proteins linked to dementia, using a friendly peptide to help get these treatments into the brain more easily, with the goal of making therapies safer and more effective for people with dementia.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Southern California NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11230055 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to deliver anti-sense oligonucleotides, which are designed to target and reduce the expression of harmful proteins associated with dementia, specifically α-synuclein. The study utilizes a peptide called ApoB11 that facilitates the transport of these oligonucleotides across the blood-brain barrier, which is a significant challenge in treating neurological disorders. By administering these treatments systemically rather than through invasive methods, the research aims to improve the effectiveness and accessibility of therapies for patients with dementia and related conditions. The project will assess the pharmacokinetics and safety of this delivery method in animal models before considering human applications.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with dementia with Lewy bodies or related neurodegenerative disorders characterized by α-synuclein accumulation.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative disorders not associated with α-synuclein or those in advanced stages of dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for dementia with Lewy bodies and potentially other neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using peptides for systemic delivery of oligonucleotides is innovative, similar strategies have shown promise in other neurological conditions, indicating potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Los Angeles, 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 2026-06-13 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.