Investigating how a specific protein affects brain cell health in Alzheimer's and related dementias

Effects of TDP-43 Proteinopathy on Retrotransposon Activation and Cell-Type Specific Vulnerability in a Mammalian Model of Alzheimer's and Related Dementias

['FUNDING_R01'] · STATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK · NIH-11230655

This study is looking at how a protein called TDP-43 might cause problems in brain cells that could lead to Alzheimer's and other types of dementia, and it aims to find out if changing the levels of this protein can help us understand and possibly treat these conditions better.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSTATE UNIVERSITY NEW YORK STONY BROOK (nih funded)
Locations1 site (STONY BROOK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11230655 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of TDP-43 protein and its impact on retrotransposon activation in the context of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Using a mammalian model, the study aims to understand how TDP-43 toxicity can lead to neurodegeneration by activating retrotransposons in neurons and glial cells. The researchers will employ advanced techniques to manipulate TDP-43 levels in specific cell types to observe the resulting effects on cell health and communication. This approach may reveal new insights into the mechanisms of dementia and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those with familial histories of these conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia not related to TDP-43 proteinopathy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of TDP-43 in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

STONY BROOK, 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 disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome

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.