How brain cells push out toxic protein clumps in Alzheimer's
Molecular and Cell Biological Foundations of Proteostress-Induced Neuronal Extrusion
['FUNDING_R01'] · RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. · NIH-11311290
Using tiny transparent worms, researchers are learning how stressed brain cells push out toxic protein clumps that may spread in Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11311290 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses tiny transparent worms (C. elegans) so scientists can watch single neurons in real time and see how they form large vesicles called exophers that carry damaged proteins. Researchers put human Alzheimer's-related proteins into those neurons and use genetics and live imaging to see when and why exophers form. They manipulate protein quality-control systems (like the proteasome) and cellular structures (such as actin and actomyosin) to understand what drives extrusion of toxic material. The goal is to map the cell-level steps that let harmful protein aggregates leave neurons and move through tissues.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: There is no patient enrollment for this lab-based work, but the findings are most relevant to adults with Alzheimer's disease and may inform future clinical trials they could join.
Not a fit: Because this is basic laboratory research in worms, patients should not expect direct or immediate clinical benefit from this project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new ways to stop the spread of toxic proteins and guide therapies that protect neurons in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies have shown neurons can eject exophers in worms and that these can carry protein aggregates, but translating these findings to humans remains early and largely untested.
Where this research is happening
PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES
- RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J. — PISCATAWAY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DRISCOLL, MONICA A. — RUTGERS, THE STATE UNIV OF N.J.
- Study coordinator: DRISCOLL, MONICA A.
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia