Investigating how a specific protein affects neuron vulnerability in Alzheimer's disease

Ectodermal-neural cortex 1 and neuronal vulnerability to tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · OHIO STATE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11014450

This study is looking at how a protein called ENC1 affects brain cells in Alzheimer's disease to find out why some neurons are more likely to get damaged, with the hope of discovering new ways to protect those cells and slow down the disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorOHIO STATE UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (Columbus, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11014450 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding why certain neurons in the brain are more susceptible to damage in Alzheimer's disease (AD). It examines the role of a protein called ectodermal-neural cortex 1 (ENC1) in regulating neuron health and its potential impact on tau pathology, which is a hallmark of AD. By analyzing genetic data from brain cells, the researchers aim to identify how ENC1 levels change in healthy versus diseased brains and how this might influence the progression of Alzheimer's. The goal is to uncover new therapeutic targets that could help protect vulnerable neurons from degeneration.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting molecular pathways related to tau pathology, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Columbus, 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, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease brain, Alzheimer's disease pathology

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.