Using pulsed laser therapy to explore treatment for Alzheimer's disease linked to head injuries
Official title: Pulsed laser therapy in an asymptomatic head injury-accelerated Alzheimer's model
Funded at Augusta University · NIH-10977191 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how pulsed laser therapy might help people with Alzheimer's disease, especially those who have had mild head injuries, by protecting their brains and slowing down symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Augusta University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Augusta, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,309,898 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS135548-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10977191 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals who have experienced mild traumatic brain injuries and are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a history of head injuries or those who are already diagnosed with advanced Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of pulsed laser therapy on Alzheimer's disease that may be accelerated by mild traumatic brain injuries (TBI). The study aims to understand how TBI affects the blood-brain barrier and contributes to the progression of Alzheimer's. By using a novel rat model, researchers will assess whether noninvasive laser therapy can protect the brain and slow down the development of Alzheimer's symptoms. This approach could provide insights into new treatment strategies for individuals at risk due to past head injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease in patients with a history of head injuries.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of pulsed laser therapy is a novel approach in this context, previous research has shown promise in using similar noninvasive therapies for neurological conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
Augusta University
Augusta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhang, Quanguang — Augusta University
- Study coordinator: Zhang, Quanguang
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.