Investigating how a specific protein modification affects dementia related to Alzheimer's disease.
Official title: Emerging role of PAD4 mediated TDP-43 citrullination in the neuropathology of LATE and Alzheimer’s Disease Related Dementias
Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-11030769 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called PAD4 changes another protein linked to dementia, like Alzheimer's, to better understand how this affects brain cells and memory, with hopes of finding new ways to help people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kentucky NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Lexington, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $649,037 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG084670-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11030769 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage cognitive impairment not related to TDP-43 pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called PAD4 in modifying another protein, TDP-43, which is linked to various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease. The researchers will explore how this modification impacts the behavior of TDP-43 in brain cells and contributes to cognitive decline. By using mouse models and human brain samples, they aim to uncover the mechanisms behind this process and identify potential therapeutic targets. The study seeks to fill a critical gap in knowledge regarding TDP-43 pathology and its implications for dementia.
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: While the specific approach of targeting PAD4-mediated TDP-43 citrullination is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding TDP-43 pathology in dementia.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Kentucky
Lexington, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Selenica, Maj-Linda B — University of Kentucky
- Study coordinator: Selenica, Maj-Linda B
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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.