Creating a new model to study tau protein toxicity using yeast
Developing and Validating a Novel Tau Toxicity Model in the Budding Yeast
This study is looking at how certain proteins related to dementia can become harmful in cells, using a type of yeast to see how these proteins behave and what genes might affect their toxicity, which could help us find new ways to treat these brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10745344 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how tau proteins, which are linked to various forms of dementia, become toxic in cells. By using the budding yeast Saccharomyces cerevisiae, researchers will overexpress human tau proteins to observe their effects and identify genetic factors that may influence tau toxicity. This approach allows for powerful genetic screening to uncover the molecular pathways involved in tau-related neurodegenerative diseases. The findings could lead to a better understanding of tauopathies and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals affected by tauopathies, such as Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with tauopathies who are not interested in research participation or those with other unrelated neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases associated with tau protein toxicity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using yeast models has successfully identified genetic modifiers of other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dang, Weiwei — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Dang, Weiwei
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.