Investigating a new treatment to reduce tau protein levels in Alzheimer's disease
Evaluating the p-Tau inhibition and neuroprotective effects of sAPPalpha using brain permeable small molecules
This study is looking at a way to use a special protein and a safe medication to help lower harmful tau levels in the brain, which could improve thinking and memory for people with Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11105856 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the effects of a protein called soluble amyloid precursor protein alpha (sAPPα) to lower levels of phosphorylated tau (p-tau), which is linked to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. The approach involves using a brain-permeable small molecule, tropisetron, which has already been approved for other uses. By testing this compound in mouse models of Alzheimer's, the researchers aim to identify effective treatments that could improve cognitive function by reducing toxic tau protein levels. The study will assess both in vitro and in vivo effects to find optimized compounds for further development.
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 it.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau protein pathology may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in reducing tau levels using similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: John, Varghese — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: John, Varghese
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.