Using existing medications to treat Alzheimer's disease

Repurposing FDA-approved agonists of HCAR2 as novel therapeutics for Alzheimer's Disease

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11212155

This study is looking at whether certain FDA-approved medications can help improve thinking and memory in people with Alzheimer's by activating a specific receptor in the brain, and it hopes to find new ways to treat this challenging condition using drugs that are already available.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11212155 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the potential of FDA-approved medications that activate the HCAR2 receptor to treat Alzheimer's disease. The study focuses on how these medications, which have shown neuroprotective effects in other conditions, can improve cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients. By examining their effects in animal models of Alzheimer's, the research aims to provide insights into new therapeutic options for this debilitating disease. Patients may benefit from a novel treatment approach that repurposes existing drugs to target the underlying mechanisms of Alzheimer's.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing significant cognitive decline.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia or cognitive impairment unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that improve cognitive function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success in using HCAR2 agonists for neuroprotection in other neurological conditions, suggesting a promising avenue for Alzheimer's treatment.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.