How TDP-43 protein affects Alzheimer's disease through retrotransposons and viruses

Feedback amplification between Retrotransposons/endogenous retroviruses and TDP-43 in Alzheimers related dementias

['FUNDING_R01'] · STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK · NIH-10864987

This study is looking at how a protein called TDP-43 might help spread problems between brain cells in Alzheimer's and similar diseases, using fruit flies and cell models to learn more about how this happens.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10864987 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of TDP-43 protein in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, focusing on how it may amplify and spread pathology between brain cells. The study will explore the activation of retrotransposons and endogenous retroviruses by TDP-43, which could contribute to the progression of neurodegenerative diseases. Using models from fruit flies and mammalian cell cultures, researchers aim to understand the mechanisms behind this inter-cellular spread of disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia not related to TDP-43 pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapeutic targets for treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of linking TDP-43 pathology with retrotransposons is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding neurodegenerative diseases.

Where this research is happening

STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease and related dementia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.