Understanding how zinc signaling affects neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Analytical Tools for Light-Initiated Zn2+ Signaling in Neurodegenerative Disease
Funded at University of Kansas Lawrence · NIH-11054363 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how zinc levels in the brain might affect Alzheimer's disease and aims to find new ways to help manage the condition by understanding how zinc interacts with brain chemicals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Lawrence NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lawrence, United States) |
| Project start | December 15, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $661,537 |
| NIH project number | 1R01AG087372-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11054363 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases other than Alzheimer's, such as multiple sclerosis or Huntington's disease, may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of zinc ions (Zn2+) in neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on how oxidative stress and zinc dysregulation contribute to neuronal dysfunction and cognitive decline. By developing new analytical tools, the research aims to better understand the interactions between zinc and neurotransmitters, which are crucial for brain health. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for managing Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help restore normal zinc signaling and improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of metal ions in neurodegeneration, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kansas Lawrence
Lawrence, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Johnson, Michael a. — University of Kansas Lawrence
- Study coordinator: Johnson, Michael a.
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.