How a protein may help reduce inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Regulation of Neurodegeneration by Nonpathogenic Cellular Prion Protein and LRP1
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11044920 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a harmless form of a protein in the brain might help control inflammation in diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS, with the hope of finding new ways to slow down these conditions and improve the lives of patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 20, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $563,313 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS136112-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11044920 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or ALS.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not diagnosed with Alzheimer's or ALS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a non-pathogenic form of the Cellular Prion Protein (PrPC) in regulating inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS. The study focuses on how PrPC interacts with specific receptors in immune cells to potentially reduce harmful inflammatory responses. By understanding these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic strategies that could slow disease progression and improve patient outcomes. Patients may benefit from insights gained about inflammation's role in their conditions and potential new treatments derived from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases and improve quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to modulate inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gonias, Steven L. — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Gonias, Steven L.
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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.