How brain proteins like Tau and alpha-synuclein stick and clump on cell surfaces
The molecular determinants of surface-templated self-association of intrinsically disordered proteins
This research looks at how proteins tied to Alzheimer's and Parkinson's stick together on parts of brain cells, to help people with degenerative brain diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11193855 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The lab recreates the cell surfaces where Tau and alpha-synuclein accumulate and uses new biophysical tools to see how these proteins self‑associate. Researchers will model two systems: Tau gathering on microtubules and alpha-synuclein clustering on synaptic vesicle membranes. They will vary chemical modifications and surface features to map conditions that promote or block clumping. The work is done in controlled laboratory systems to better mirror what happens in diseased brains.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People diagnosed with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or related neurodegenerative disorders who are interested in contributing to research or future trials would be most relevant to this work.
Not a fit: People without neurodegenerative disease or those seeking immediate treatment will likely not get direct clinical benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal early steps in protein clumping that point to new ways to prevent or slow neurodegeneration.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have improved understanding of Tau and alpha-synuclein behavior, but focusing on surface‑templated self‑association with these new tools is a relatively novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chung, Peter J — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Chung, Peter J
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.