How nucleic acids influence protein folding and aggregation
Official title: Nucleic Acids Roles in Protein Folding and Aggregation
Funded at University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-10932852 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain molecules called nucleic acids can help proteins fold correctly and avoid clumping together, which is important for understanding and potentially treating diseases like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2021 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $368,289 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM142442-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10932852 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not affected by protein misfolding disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of nucleic acids in the processes of protein folding and aggregation, which are critical in the development of diseases like Alzheimer's. The team is exploring how nucleic acids can act as chaperones to prevent protein misfolding and aggregation. By utilizing a combination of molecular biology, biochemistry, biophysics, and bacterial genetics, the researchers aim to uncover the mechanisms by which nucleic acids influence protein homeostasis. Their findings could lead to new insights into the treatment of neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of nucleic acids in protein aggregation, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Horowitz, Scott Andrew — University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
- Study coordinator: Horowitz, Scott Andrew
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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.