How different forms of progranulin affect protein breakdown in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: The impact of progranulin species on TDP-43 proteolysis and pathobiology
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11112611 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different types of a protein called progranulin affect the breakdown of another protein linked to diseases like Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia, especially as we age, to help find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,275,512 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS142354-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11112611 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's Disease, frontotemporal dementia, or related neurodegenerative conditions, particularly those experiencing age-related cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not associated with TDP-43 pathology or those at an early stage of cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of various forms of progranulin in the breakdown of TDP-43, a protein associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. The study focuses on understanding how age-related changes in progranulin levels impact the function of lysosomes, which are crucial for cellular health. By examining the interactions between progranulin species and TDP-43, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to the progression of these diseases, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for neurodegenerative diseases by targeting the underlying mechanisms of protein mismanagement.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding lysosomal function and its impact on neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kao, Aimee — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Kao, Aimee
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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.