Heparan sulfate's role in clearing amyloid‑beta from brain blood vessels
Heparan sulfate proteoglycan in the brain vascular clearance of amyloid-β and Alzheimer's disease
Researchers are looking at whether a sugar‑like molecule in brain blood vessels helps clear the amyloid protein that builds up in people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11158858 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
From a patient's view, the team will compare levels of a molecule called heparan sulfate in the brain blood vessels of people with and without Alzheimer's and look for links to amyloid buildup. They will analyze human tissue samples and use laboratory models to see how heparan sulfate helps transport amyloid‑beta out of the brain, including its interactions with clearance proteins like LRP1. The project combines molecular measurements, blood‑vessel imaging, and experiments in cells or model systems to trace the clearance pathway. The goal is to identify steps where loss of heparan sulfate blocks removal of amyloid so future treatments might target those points.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People living with Alzheimer's disease or mild cognitive impairment, and those willing to donate samples or take part in related studies, would be most relevant for participation in related work.
Not a fit: This is basic and translational research rather than a treatment trial, so participants should not expect direct or immediate clinical benefit from taking part.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to ways to boost the brain's ability to remove amyloid‑beta and potentially slow Alzheimer's progression.
How similar studies have performed: Prior research shows impaired amyloid clearance contributes to Alzheimer's, but focusing on heparan sulfate in brain vessels is a newer approach with limited prior clinical success.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Lianchun — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Wang, Lianchun
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.