A new molecule that activates a key protein involved in Alzheimer's disease.
Official title: Rapireon, a new macrocycle molecular glue that selectively activates the nuclease activity of IRE1
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10944301 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new compound called Rapireon that helps a protein important for managing stress in cells, and it could lead to better treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, which may help patients in the future.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | September 17, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,830,581 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS138343-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10944301 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel compound called Rapireon, which selectively activates a protein known as IRE1 that plays a crucial role in the cellular response to stress. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and x-ray crystallography, the researchers aim to understand how Rapireon interacts with IRE1 and enhances its function. This could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. Patients may benefit from insights gained through this research that could inform future treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the IRE1 pathway for neurodegenerative diseases, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Liu, Jun O. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Liu, Jun O.
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.