Creating new treatments for Alzheimer's disease by studying tau protein
Official title: Designing novel therapeutics for Alzheimer’s disease using structural studies of tau
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10873054 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new treatment for Alzheimer's disease that aims to stop a protein called tau from forming harmful tangles in the brain, and it will test how well this treatment works in mice that have a similar condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $43,830 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AG077832-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10873054 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 65 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or are at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or those without any signs of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new therapies for Alzheimer's disease, particularly targeting the tau protein, which is known to form tangles in the brains of affected individuals. The approach involves designing a peptide-based inhibitor that can prevent tau aggregation, which is linked to cognitive decline. The research will explore how this inhibitor works at a molecular level and improve its ability to cross the blood-brain barrier, ensuring it reaches the brain effectively. Additionally, the effectiveness of this treatment will be tested in a mouse model that mimics Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to innovative treatments that slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in targeting tau aggregation, indicating that this approach has potential based on earlier successes.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pan, Hope — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Pan, Hope
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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.