Understanding the causes of Alzheimer's disease and finding ways to prevent or treat it
Official title: BLRD Research Career Scientist Award Application
Funded at Oklahoma City VA Medical Center · NIH-11103253 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Oklahoma City VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Oklahoma City, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2022 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK6BX006026-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11103253 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older veterans who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger and do not have any risk factors for Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: 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 VA Medical Center
Oklahoma City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Galvan, Veronica — Oklahoma City VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Galvan, Veronica
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.