Understanding how some people resist Alzheimer's disease effects on the brain

Mechanisms of Synaptic Protection in Cognitive Resilence to Alzheimer's Disease Neuropathology

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON · NIH-11052622

This study is looking at why some people can have brain changes linked to Alzheimer's disease but still feel fine, and it’s exploring how certain brain receptors might help protect them from the harmful effects of Alzheimer's proteins.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MED BR GALVESTON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GALVESTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11052622 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates why certain individuals can have significant Alzheimer's disease-related brain changes without showing symptoms. It focuses on the role of specific brain receptors that may protect against the harmful effects of proteins associated with Alzheimer's. By studying these receptors in people who are not demented despite having high levels of Alzheimer's pathology, the research aims to identify potential protective mechanisms. The approach includes analyzing synaptic proteins and their interactions with toxic proteins in the brain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or show signs of Alzheimer's pathology but do not exhibit clinical symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients who are already experiencing significant cognitive decline or dementia may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or delaying the onset of Alzheimer's disease symptoms in at-risk individuals.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on Alzheimer's pathology, this specific investigation into synaptic protection mechanisms in non-demented individuals is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

GALVESTON, 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

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.