Exploring how the endoplasmic reticulum's response affects tau protein in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Investigating the role of the endoplasmic reticulum unfolded protein response in tauopathy
Funded at University of Washington · NIH-11053464 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific cellular response might play a role in Alzheimer's disease and other related conditions, using tiny worms to find ways to help reduce the buildup of harmful proteins in the brain as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $53,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F30AG082410-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11053464 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related tauopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tauopathies not associated with aging or those with other unrelated neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the endoplasmic reticulum's unfolded protein response (UPRER) in the development of tauopathies, particularly in Alzheimer's disease. By using genetic techniques in the model organism C. elegans, the study aims to identify molecular mechanisms that could be targeted for therapeutic intervention. The researchers will focus on how abnormal UPRER activation contributes to tau protein accumulation and its interaction with other proteins associated with neurodegeneration. This work is crucial for understanding the relationship between aging, tauopathy, and neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of protein misfolding in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Washington
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Marina — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Han, Marina
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.