How the protein FKBP51 affects tau in Alzheimer's disease
The hsp90 Cochaperone FKBP51 Regulates tau Structure and Function
Researchers will see if lowering or blocking a protein called FKBP51 can reduce harmful tau buildup that links to memory loss and mood problems in Alzheimer’s disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of South Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tampa, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11290403 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This lab project uses genetically modified mice to remove or block FKBP51 and watches whether that reduces tau protein buildup and related nerve-cell damage. Scientists will also test mice carrying a human FKBP51 genetic variant linked to higher depression risk to see if they become more vulnerable to tau-driven mood and cognitive problems. The team will map molecular changes tied to vulnerability to neuropsychiatric symptoms to better understand how FKBP51 shapes disease progression. Findings will be used to decide whether FKBP51 is a promising target for future therapies aimed at tau-related Alzheimer’s changes and mood symptoms.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Alzheimer’s disease, especially those who develop early depression or other neuropsychiatric symptoms, would be the most likely candidates for future trials based on this work.
Not a fit: People without Alzheimer’s disease or those with very advanced, widespread brain damage may not see direct benefits from these early laboratory findings in the near term.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to new drug targets that lower tau-related damage and help slow cognitive decline and depression in people with Alzheimer’s.
How similar studies have performed: Prior laboratory studies have linked FKBP51 to tau accumulation and to depression risk in Alzheimer’s, and modulating FKBP51 has changed tau behavior in cell and animal models, but effective human treatments targeting FKBP51 have not yet been proven.
Where this research is happening
Tampa, United States
- University of South Florida — Tampa, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Blair, Laura J — University of South Florida
- Study coordinator: Blair, Laura 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.