Using a modified probiotic to treat Alzheimer's Disease.
Official title: ANG1-7 as an intervention for Alzheimer's Disease.
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-10772180 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at whether a special probiotic can help slow down Alzheimer's disease by improving brain health and thinking skills in rats, with hopes that it could one day help people with the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $224,588 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG075393-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10772180 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for Alzheimer's Disease or those in the early stages of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Alzheimer's Disease or those who do not have the genetic predisposition for the conditions being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of a genetically modified probiotic, Lactobacillus paracasei, that produces Angiotensin (1-7) on Alzheimer's Disease. The study aims to determine if this treatment can slow the progression of Alzheimer's by reducing harmful markers in the brain and improving cognitive function in a rat model of the disease. By focusing on the early stages of Alzheimer's pathology, the research seeks to provide a novel therapeutic approach that could eventually be translated to human patients. The methodology includes behavioral assays to assess cognitive performance and anxiety levels in treated animals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a new oral treatment that slows cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using genetically modified probiotics is innovative, similar research has shown promise in other therapeutic areas, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Buford, Thomas W — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Buford, Thomas W
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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.