Targeting a specific enzyme in brain cells to treat Alzheimer's disease

Microglial hexokinase 2 as a therapeutic target in Alzheimer's disease

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-10875709

This study is looking at how a specific enzyme in brain immune cells can be used to help treat Alzheimer's disease by understanding how these cells react to harmful plaques in the brain, with the hope of finding new ways to reduce inflammation and boost brain health for people with Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-10875709 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a particular enzyme, hexokinase 2, in brain immune cells called microglia, can be targeted to improve treatment for Alzheimer's disease. The study examines how these cells change their metabolism in response to amyloid plaques, which are characteristic of Alzheimer's. By understanding the metabolic shifts in microglia, researchers aim to find new therapeutic strategies that could help reduce inflammation and improve brain function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those exhibiting early signs of cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in targeting metabolic pathways in immune cells for treating neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease brainAlzheimer's disease model
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.