How a toxic protein affects energy-producing structures in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Mitochondrial liquid-liquid phase separation in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11057179 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a harmful protein related to Alzheimer's disease affects the tiny powerhouses in our cells that produce energy, and it's designed for anyone interested in understanding more about how this protein might disrupt cell health in Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $308,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R03AG087431-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11057179 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk due to advanced age.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the effects of a toxic protein called Aβ42 on mitochondria, the energy-producing structures in cells, specifically in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The study aims to understand how Aβ42 disrupts mitochondrial functions and gene expression, which are crucial for maintaining mitochondrial health. By using a basic cell model, researchers will explore the mechanisms behind these disruptions and how they contribute to the disease. The project also includes innovative techniques to control Aβ42 and observe its impact on mitochondrial dynamics.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that target mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of investigating Aβ42's impact on mitochondrial phase separation is novel, related research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Nam Chul — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Kim, Nam Chul
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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.