Investigating how a protein deficiency affects brain aging and neurodegeneration
Progranulin deficiency and microglia senescence in neurodegeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-10886015
This study is looking at how a lack of a protein called Progranulin might contribute to brain diseases like Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia, using mice to help us understand how it all works, so we can find better ways to help people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-10886015 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Progranulin (PGRN) deficiency in neurodegeneration, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and frontotemporal dementia. It examines how mutations in the GRN gene lead to reduced PGRN levels, triggering harmful glial activation and contributing to brain aging. The study utilizes mouse models to replicate key features of neurodegeneration and employs advanced techniques like single-cell transcriptomic analyses to understand the underlying mechanisms. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the relationship between PGRN and neurodegenerative diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with a family history of Alzheimer's disease or frontotemporal dementia, particularly those with known GRN mutations.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to PGRN deficiency or those without genetic predispositions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases, potentially improving outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of PGRN in neurodegeneration, indicating that this approach is building on established findings.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HUANG, ERIC J — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: HUANG, ERIC 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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease risk