Investigating how a specific protein affects aging and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Cathepsin-L mediated remodeling of the nuclear proteome
Funded at Saint Louis University · NIH-11072868 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called cathepsin L to see how it affects aging and its link to Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with conditions like Alzheimer's or Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome feel better and slow down their symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Saint Louis University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | November 15, 2024 |
| Project end | October 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $227,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG089917-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11072868 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with accelerated aging conditions, such as Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome, and those diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with no signs of accelerated aging or Alzheimer's disease are unlikely to benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cathepsin L, a protease, in the aging process and its connection to Alzheimer's disease. By examining how this protein interacts with nuclear proteins that are crucial for cellular structure and function, the study aims to identify potential therapeutic strategies to mitigate the effects of aging and related diseases. Patients with conditions like Hutchinson Gilford Progeria Syndrome and Alzheimer's may benefit from insights gained through this research, particularly regarding treatments that could alleviate symptoms or slow disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve the quality of life for patients suffering from age-related diseases, including Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in similar areas, particularly regarding the role of cathepsin L in cellular stress responses, indicating potential for success in this research.
Where this research is happening
-
Saint Louis University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gonzalo Hervas, Susana — Saint Louis University
- Study coordinator: Gonzalo Hervas, Susana
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.