How a Protein Called TFEB Affects Brain Diseases Like Alzheimer's
ROLE OF TFEB IN TAUOPATHY
This research explores how a natural process in our brain cells, managed by a protein called TFEB, helps clear away harmful proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11116911 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many brain conditions, including Alzheimer's disease, are linked to the buildup of abnormal proteins called Tau, which form harmful clumps in brain cells. Our bodies have a natural 'cleanup crew' within cells, called the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, that helps remove waste and damaged components. This project focuses on a master controller of this cleanup process, a protein called TFEB. We are learning how TFEB helps clear away the harmful Tau proteins, potentially preventing their spread and improving brain function in conditions like Alzheimer's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not currently recruiting patients for direct participation, but future studies may seek individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related tauopathies.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to Tau protein accumulation would not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions by enhancing the brain's natural ability to clear harmful proteins.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team and others has shown promising results regarding TFEB's role in clearing harmful proteins, providing a strong foundation for this ongoing research.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zheng, Hui — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Zheng, Hui
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.