Identifying a new biomarker for certain types of dementia.
Official title: A new biomarker for frontotemporal lobar degeneration with TDP-43 proteinopathy and Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Utah · NIH-10758268 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on creating a special antibody that can help identify a protein linked to different types of dementia, like Alzheimer's, to improve how we diagnose and treat people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Utah NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Salt Lake City, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $194,030 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG080502-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10758268 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal lobar degeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of dementia not associated with TDP-43 pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a specific antibody that targets a protein called TDP-43, which is linked to various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal lobar degeneration. By understanding the different forms of TDP-43 present in patients, the research aims to improve diagnosis and treatment options for those affected by these conditions. The approach involves screening thousands of monoclonal antibody clones to find one that can accurately identify the harmful forms of TDP-43 in the brain. This could lead to better clinical outcomes for patients suffering from these complex dementia syndromes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and targeted treatments for patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Utah
Salt Lake City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mao, Qinwen — University of Utah
- Study coordinator: Mao, Qinwen
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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.