Creating new therapies to protect brain cells in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Development of Protein Like Polymer Therapeutics for Modulating the Nrf2/Keap1 Protein Protein Interaction in Neurodegenerative Diseases
Funded at Northwestern University · NIH-10906898 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new treatments that help protect brain cells from damage in diseases like Alzheimer's by blocking the interaction between two important proteins, which could lead to better ways to slow down the disease and improve life for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | September 10, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $56,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AG076317-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10906898 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases, especially those with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not diagnosed with Alzheimer's or related diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing innovative therapeutics that target the interaction between two proteins, Nrf2 and Keap1, which play a crucial role in protecting brain cells from damage in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The approach involves creating protein-like polymers that can effectively inhibit the binding of these proteins, enhancing the body's antioxidant response and providing neuroprotection. By improving the delivery and effectiveness of these therapeutics, the research aims to address current limitations in treating neurodegenerative conditions. Patients may benefit from a new class of treatments that could slow disease progression and improve quality of life.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting the Nrf2/Keap1 interaction, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Carrow, Kendal Paige — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Carrow, Kendal Paige
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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.