Developing new treatments for Alzheimer's disease by targeting harmful proteins
Towards Treatment of Alzheimer’s Disease by Targeting Pathogenic Tau and Beta-Amyloid Structures
This study is working on finding new medications for Alzheimer's disease by looking closely at the harmful proteins in the brain, with the goal of discovering safe and effective treatments that can help reverse the damage they cause.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11020983 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating new drugs for Alzheimer's disease by using advanced techniques to understand the structure of harmful proteins, specifically Tau and beta-amyloid. By analyzing the near-atomic structure of Tau fibrils from Alzheimer's patients, researchers aim to identify how to effectively dissolve these toxic aggregates without causing harm. The project involves screening various compounds to find safe and effective treatments that can reverse the damage caused by these proteins in the brain. Collaborations with synthetic chemists will enhance the discovery of compounds that can penetrate the brain effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing early symptoms of dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Tau or beta-amyloid aggregation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to groundbreaking treatments that reverse the effects of Alzheimer's disease and improve patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting protein aggregates in other diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective for Alzheimer's as well.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Eisenberg, David — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Eisenberg, David
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.