Investigating how a protein affects waste clearance in brain cells
WIPI2B/ATG-18 phosphorylation regulates neuronal autophagosome biogenesis in vivo
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON · NIH-10827175
This study is looking at how a protein called WIPI2B helps clean up waste in brain cells, which is important for preventing problems like Alzheimer's as we get older, and it hopes to find new ways to treat these age-related brain issues.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (HOUSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10827175 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific protein, WIPI2B, influences the process of autophagy, which is crucial for clearing waste in neurons. As we age, the efficiency of this waste clearance decreases, contributing to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study will explore the role of WIPI2B's phosphorylation state in regulating autophagy in neurons, using a model organism to simulate Alzheimer's disease. By uncovering these mechanisms, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for treating age-related neurodegenerative disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those related to Alzheimer's.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to aging or Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that enhance waste clearance in brain cells, potentially slowing or preventing neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing autophagy in neurons, suggesting that this approach could lead to significant advancements in treating neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
HOUSTON, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON — HOUSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: TSONG, HEATHER — UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS HLTH SCI CTR HOUSTON
- Study coordinator: TSONG, HEATHER
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.
Conditions: age associated neurodegenerative disease, age associated neurodegenerative disorder, age dependent neurodegenerative disease, age dependent neurodegenerative disorder, age-driven neurodegenerative disorders