Finding new treatments for Alzheimer's disease by studying protein interactions with cell membranes
Official title: A cost-effective, high-throughput screening platform for modulator discovery of a-synuclein membrane interactions involved in neurodegenerative diseases
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-11010453 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease interacts with cell membranes, and it's trying to find new ways to help people by discovering compounds that could reduce the harmful effects of that protein.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | January 12, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $201,875 |
| NIH project number | 7R21AG078699-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010453 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to Alzheimer's or those without any cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a protein called α-synuclein interacts with cell membranes, which is believed to contribute to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Researchers have developed innovative tools to observe these interactions in detail, aiming to discover new compounds that can modify or inhibit the harmful effects of α-synuclein. By identifying potential therapeutic agents, this research hopes to provide new avenues for treatment that could improve the lives of those affected by these neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting protein interactions in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bao, Huan — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Bao, Huan
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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.