Understanding the causes of Alzheimer's disease and finding ways to prevent or treat it

BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application

NIH-funded research Oklahoma City VA Medical Center · NIH-11103253

This study, led by Dr. Veronica Galvan, is looking at how aging affects Alzheimer's disease, especially in veterans, and is testing a promising drug called rapamycin to see if it can help slow down the disease and improve brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOklahoma City VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Oklahoma City, United States)
Project IDNIH-11103253 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on Alzheimer's disease (AD), particularly how aging contributes to its development. Led by Dr. Veronica Galvan, the project investigates the molecular and biochemical changes associated with AD, especially in veterans who are at higher risk due to various factors. The research aims to identify potential interventions, including the use of rapamycin, a drug that has shown promise in slowing aging in animal models, to prevent or treat AD. By exploring the role of pathogenic tau protein and its effects on brain vascular health, the study seeks to uncover new therapeutic strategies for managing dementia.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include older veterans who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger and do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and improve the quality of life for patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar approaches, particularly in using rapamycin to slow aging and its implications for Alzheimer's treatment.

Where this research is happening

Oklahoma 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.
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.