Targeting a specific enzyme to help treat Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Targeting the alpha secretase ADAM10 for the treatment of Alzheimer's disease
Funded at Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-10738806 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with Alzheimer's disease by using a special treatment that activates a helpful enzyme to reduce harmful brain plaques and improve memory and thinking skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $221,250 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG080685-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10738806 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those showing early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or cognitive impairment unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on Alzheimer's disease, a common degenerative condition characterized by the buildup of harmful amyloid plaques in the brain. The study investigates a specific enzyme called ADAM10, which, when activated, may help prevent the formation of these plaques and promote neuroprotection. Researchers are developing a targeted approach using a monoclonal antibody, 8C7, that selectively activates ADAM10 without causing harmful side effects. This innovative method aims to improve memory and cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new treatment that slows down or even reverses cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: While targeting ADAM10 is a novel approach, similar strategies in Alzheimer's research have shown promise, indicating potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Nikolov, Dimitar B — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
- Study coordinator: Nikolov, Dimitar B
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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.