Peptides to protect brain cells in Alzheimer's
Role of the CX3CL1 C-terminus in reversing age-dependent Alzheimers neurodegeneration
This project is developing small protein fragments aimed at protecting brain cells and improving memory in people with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Farmington, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10831628 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers are creating and testing short pieces of a brain protein (derived from CX3CL1) that in lab-grown neurons reduced cell stress and prevented cell death caused by Alzheimer's-related proteins. They will study whether these peptides encourage new neuron growth, protect synapses, and reduce tau-related damage in preclinical models. Most work is lab- and model-based at the University of Connecticut, so direct patient treatment is not part of this grant yet but the aim is to prepare a therapy that could move into human trials later.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: If this approach reaches clinical testing, ideal candidates would likely be older adults with early-stage Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment due to Alzheimer's pathology.
Not a fit: People with advanced Alzheimer's, other types of dementia, or memory problems not caused by Alzheimer's are unlikely to benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these peptides could slow neuron loss and help preserve thinking and memory in people with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Related peptide and neuroprotective approaches have shown promising results in laboratory and animal studies but have not yet been proven effective in people.
Where this research is happening
Farmington, United States
- University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt — Farmington, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Yan, Riqiang — University of Connecticut Sch of Med/dnt
- Study coordinator: Yan, Riqiang
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 below.