Understanding how energy metabolism affects brain connections in Alzheimer's disease

Metabolic Vulnerability of Synapses in Neurodegenerative Disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV · NIH-10771218

This study is looking at how aging affects the brain's energy use and how that might lead to problems in brain connections, especially in people with Alzheimer's, to find new ways to help improve brain health.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10771218 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the metabolic vulnerabilities of synapses in the brain, particularly in the context of age-related neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study aims to uncover how the brain's ability to process energy diminishes with age, leading to synaptic dysfunction and ultimately neuronal death. By examining the role of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in synaptic health, the researchers hope to identify critical factors that contribute to the progression of Alzheimer's disease. This work could provide insights into new therapeutic targets for improving brain function in affected individuals.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing neurodegenerative conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with non-age-related cognitive impairments or those with advanced stages of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting metabolic dysfunction in the brain.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding metabolic dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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

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.