How O-GlcNAc affects brain proteins related to Alzheimer's and sleep
Official title: Writing and erasing O-GlcNAc on target proteins in the brain
Funded at Harvard University · NIH-10637668 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special sugar molecule affects brain proteins that help control sleep and may play a role in Alzheimer's Disease, using fruit flies to find out more about how this could lead to new treatments for the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Harvard University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cambridge, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,756,251 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG081475-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10637668 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 experiencing significant sleep disturbances related to neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative sleep disorders or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of O-Linked N-acetyl glucosamine (O-GlcNAc) in modifying proteins in the brain, particularly focusing on its impact on sleep regulation and Alzheimer's Disease. By using advanced protein engineering and gene editing techniques, the study aims to understand how the writing and erasing of O-GlcNAc on specific proteins can influence neurodegenerative processes. The research will utilize Drosophila model systems to explore these mechanisms, potentially leading to targeted therapies for Alzheimer's and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve sleep and cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's Disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting O-GlcNAc for therapeutic purposes, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Harvard University
Cambridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woo, Christina — Harvard University
- Study coordinator: Woo, Christina
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.