NOX2, oxidative stress, and overactive brain networks in Alzheimer's

Exploring NOX2-Mediated Network Impairment and Neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's Disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · J. DAVID GLADSTONE INSTITUTES · NIH-11241118

Researchers are looking into whether a molecule called NOX2 causes oxidative stress, reduced brain glucose use, and overactive brain networks that may speed memory loss in people with Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorJ. DAVID GLADSTONE INSTITUTES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11241118 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This project explores how NOX2-driven oxidative stress may lead to reduced glucose use in the brain and to network overactivity linked with Aβ and Tau buildup. Scientists will use laboratory models together with human-relevant biomarker and clinical data to map how NOX2 activation leads to seizures, network dysfunction, and neuron damage. They will test whether blocking NOX2 activity or calming network hyperactivity can protect neurons and preserve cognitive function. The goal is to connect molecular damage to measurable brain changes that could become targets for early intervention in Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment related to AD who are willing to provide clinical information, participate in biomarker studies, or be considered for future related trials.

Not a fit: People without AD or those with very advanced dementia who cannot benefit from early-intervention strategies are unlikely to gain direct benefit from this work.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new ways to reduce oxidative stress and brain overactivity and potentially slow cognitive decline in people with Alzheimer's.

How similar studies have performed: Previous work showed that reducing hippocampal hyperactivity with the drug levetiracetam improved cognition in amnestic MCI patients and animal models, while targeting NOX2 itself is a newer and more mechanistic approach.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.