ASAP1's role in tau buildup and spread in Alzheimer's
Understand the Role of ASAP1 in Tau Pathogenesis
Researchers are working to see whether changing the ASAP1 protein can reduce harmful tau clumps that damage brain cells in people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11271919 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses human stem-cell derived brain cells and lab models to study how ASAP1 controls uptake and spread of pathological tau. Scientists will expose human iPSC-derived neurons to different tau "strains," watch how cells take up seeds, and test whether altering ASAP1 changes seeding and transmission. Complementary molecular and animal experiments will map the signaling pathway that links ASAP1 to tau endocytosis. The overall aim is to identify points where drugs or other interventions could block tau spread and protect brain function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project does not enroll patients directly, but its results are most relevant to people living with Alzheimer's and to individuals willing to donate cells, blood, or brain tissue for research.
Not a fit: People without tau-driven Alzheimer's or those seeking immediate clinical benefit are unlikely to receive direct benefits from this laboratory-focused research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new drug targets to slow or stop the spread of tau and potentially slow cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Prior preclinical studies show that changing proteins involved in endocytosis can alter tau spread in cells and animals, but targeting ASAP1 specifically is a novel approach not yet tested in humans.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Xu, Hong — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Xu, Hong
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 below.