How a protein may help reduce inflammation in neurodegenerative diseases

Regulation of Neurodegeneration by Nonpathogenic Cellular Prion Protein and LRP1

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11044920

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11044920 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or ALS.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not diagnosed with Alzheimer's or ALS may not benefit 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 performed: 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

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.