Improving a protein's function to protect brain cells from damage in Alzheimer's disease

Enhancing Mask/ANKHD1 activity to protect against Tau-induced neurodegeneration

['FUNDING_R21'] · LSU HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER · NIH-10288299

This study is looking at how boosting a protein called Mask/ANKHD1 might help protect brain cells from damage caused by harmful proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to treat this condition and similar ones.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorLSU HEALTH SCIENCES CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW ORLEANS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10288299 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how enhancing the activity of a protein called Mask/ANKHD1 can help protect brain cells from damage caused by toxic protein aggregates associated with Alzheimer's disease. The study uses various models to understand how this protein can promote the clearance of harmful substances in the brain, potentially slowing down neurodegeneration. By focusing on the mechanisms of autophagy and lysosomal function, the research aims to develop new therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's and similar neurodegenerative conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing neurodegenerative conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to tau protein accumulation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and improve brain health.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting autophagy pathways for neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

NEW ORLEANS, 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's Disease, Alzheimer disease, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's disease dementia, Alzheimers disease

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.