New treatment using engineered bacteria for cognitive and behavioral symptoms of Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Novel Reengineered Microbiome-based Biologic Therapy to Treat Cognitive and Behavioral Symptoms of Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11097217 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new treatment using specially modified bacteria to help improve early symptoms of Alzheimer's, like memory problems, anxiety, and depression, with the hope of making life better for those in the early stages of the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,441,664 |
| NIH project number | 5U01AG074960-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11097217 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or related dementias who experience cognitive and behavioral symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not exhibit cognitive or behavioral symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a novel biologic therapy using genetically engineered bacteria to address early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease, such as cognitive impairment, anxiety, and depression. The approach focuses on restoring neurotransmitter signaling in the brain, specifically targeting deficiencies in norepinephrine and dopamine, which are crucial for cognitive function. By potentially alleviating these symptoms, the therapy could improve the quality of life for patients in the early stages of Alzheimer's. The treatment is designed to be more effective and have fewer side effects compared to current medications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for alleviating cognitive and behavioral symptoms in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using biologics to target neurotransmitter deficiencies is innovative, similar strategies in related fields have shown promise, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder
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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.