Using exosomes to reduce brain inflammation

Mitochondrial-targeting Exosomes for Neuroinflammation

['FUNDING_R15'] · MICHIGAN TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY · NIH-10875884

This study is looking at how tiny particles called exosomes can help reduce inflammation in the brain, which could be beneficial for people with conditions like Alzheimer's and ALS, by delivering special molecules that target the problem directly.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R15']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorMICHIGAN TECHNOLOGICAL UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (HOUGHTON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10875884 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how exosomes, which are tiny vesicles that can deliver therapeutic molecules, can be used to target and reduce neuroinflammation in the brain. The focus is on developing mitochondrial-targeting exosomes that carry anti-inflammatory microRNAs to treat conditions like Alzheimer's and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. By overcoming the challenges posed by the blood-brain barrier, the study aims to restore mitochondrial function and reduce oxidative stress in affected neuronal populations. The research will involve testing these exosomes in animal models to evaluate their effectiveness in reducing neuroinflammation over time.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or other neuroinflammatory conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with neuroinflammatory disorders not related to mitochondrial dysfunction may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve outcomes for patients with neuroinflammatory disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of exosomes in treating neuroinflammation is a relatively novel approach, preliminary studies have shown promise in similar applications.

Where this research is happening

HOUGHTON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Acquired brain injury, Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.