NIH-funded research R01 grant

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

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

Funded at State University New York Stony Brook · NIH-11230655 · Data updated 2026-11-12

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

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionState University New York Stony Brook
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stony Brook, United States)
Project startDecember 1, 2022
Project endNovember 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$73,312
NIH project number3R01AG079898-03S1
Project IDNIH-11230655 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

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

Less likely to help

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

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.

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 gone: 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

  • State University New York Stony Brook
    Stony Brook, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Sher, Roger B — State University New York Stony Brook
  • Study coordinator: Sher, Roger B

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.