Targeting a specific enzyme to slow down Alzheimer's disease progression

The lipid amidase NAAA as a therapeutic target for Alzheimer's disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE · NIH-10875734

This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called NAAA might influence Alzheimer's disease, using mouse models to see if blocking this enzyme can help protect brain health, which could lead to new treatments for people with Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA-IRVINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (IRVINE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10875734 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the enzyme N-Acylethanolamine Acid Amidase (NAAA) in Alzheimer's disease, aiming to understand how it affects neurodegeneration. By studying mouse models of Alzheimer's, the researchers will explore how inhibiting NAAA can protect against the disease's progression. The approach involves both pharmacological and genetic methods to assess the impact of NAAA on lipid signaling and neuronal health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.

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

Why it matters

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

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

Where this research is happening

IRVINE, 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, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease model, Alzheimer's disease pathology

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.