Understanding swallowing problems in Alzheimer's disease using a rat model
Official title: Mechanisms of swallowing dysfunction and rescue in a translational rat model of Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10893500 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how Alzheimer's disease affects swallowing and is testing whether tongue exercises can help improve swallowing for people in the early stages of the disease.
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 start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $766,822 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG085564-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10893500 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease who experience swallowing difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Alzheimer's disease or those who do not exhibit swallowing dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind swallowing dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease by using a rat model to simulate the condition. It focuses on how early pathology affects the nervous system and swallowing muscles, aiming to identify effective interventions. The study will explore the impact of tongue exercises on improving swallowing outcomes, particularly in the early stages of the disease. By addressing the gaps in understanding and treatment of dysphagia, this research seeks to enhance patient care for those affected by Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved swallowing function and quality of life for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using exercise interventions to improve motor functions in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Connor, Nadine P — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Connor, Nadine P
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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.