Understanding how glucose metabolism affects Alzheimer's disease

Glycolysis and rodent models of Alzheimer's disease

NIH-funded research University of Iowa · NIH-11195683

This study is looking at how problems with sugar processing in the brain might lead to Alzheimer's disease, using animal models to understand the underlying causes and how things like aging and other health issues affect the disease, with the hope of finding new ways to treat it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Iowa NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Iowa City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11195683 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of glucose metabolism in Alzheimer's disease, focusing on how impaired glucose processing contributes to neuronal death and dysfunction. By using rodent models, the study aims to explore the biological mechanisms behind Alzheimer's and how factors like aging and metabolic diseases influence the disease's progression. The researchers will utilize advanced imaging techniques to measure brain glucose metabolism and assess the effects of existing drugs on enhancing glycolysis in the brain. This approach could lead to new strategies for developing treatments that modify the disease's course.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, including those with metabolic disorders like obesity or diabetes.

Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have any metabolic risk factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the link between glucose metabolism and neurodegeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.

Where this research is happening

Iowa City, 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 syndrome
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.