Understanding and improving swallowing difficulties in Alzheimer's disease
Mechanisms of swallowing dysfunction and rescue in a translational rat model of Alzheimer's disease
This research explores why people with Alzheimer's disease have trouble swallowing and looks for ways to help them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11122260 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with Alzheimer's disease experience difficulty swallowing, which can be a serious and costly problem. This project aims to uncover the specific changes in the brain and muscles, particularly the tongue, that cause these swallowing issues. Researchers are using advanced methods in a rat model to understand how Alzheimer's disease affects these systems early on. They will also explore if starting tongue exercises early can improve swallowing abilities and potentially slow down the decline in function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients and caregivers interested in the underlying causes of swallowing problems in Alzheimer's disease and potential future interventions.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate clinical interventions or direct participation in a human clinical trial would not directly benefit from this specific animal model research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat swallowing difficulties, significantly improving the quality of life for individuals with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: The researchers are applying established translational approaches previously used in models of aging and Parkinson's disease, suggesting a solid foundation for their methodology.
Where this research is happening
Madison, United States
- University of Wisconsin-Madison — Madison, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Connor, Nadine P — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Connor, Nadine P
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.