Changes in nerve cell energy use linked to tau-related dementia
Alterations in somatodendritic bioenergetics in Drosophila models of tauopathy
This work looks at how nerve cells make and use energy in tau-related dementia to help people with Alzheimer’s and similar memory disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11319753 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers use fruit fly nerve cells that model tau-related damage to watch how cells make and use ATP, the molecule that powers pumps that keep electrical balance and calcium levels in check. They image live neurons to measure calcium levels and ATP/ADP ratios to see whether energy comes mainly from glycolysis (sugar breakdown) or from mitochondria (cellular powerhouses) during activity. Early data suggest cells ramp up ATP without a matching rise in mitochondrial calcium, pointing to glycolysis as a key response. Understanding these details could explain why neurons lose energy control in Alzheimer’s and point to targets to keep them healthier.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This lab project does not enroll patients; its findings aim to help people with Alzheimer’s disease or related tauopathies in future clinical research.
Not a fit: People without tau-related forms of dementia or those with very advanced disease are unlikely to see direct benefits from this basic lab research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If confirmed, these findings could point to new ways to protect neurons’ energy supply and slow or prevent damage in Alzheimer’s and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have found bioenergetic problems in Alzheimer’s and fruit fly tau models are commonly used, but applying live ATP and calcium imaging to this specific question is a novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Venkatachalam, Kartik — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Venkatachalam, Kartik
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.