Investigating how brain cells clear damaged materials to protect against neurodegeneration
Official title: The autophagy core complexes in neuronal quality control
Funded at University of California Berkeley · NIH-11046383 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain fats in the brain can help clean up damaged cells, which could lead to new ways to treat diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS, making it easier for people to stay healthy and function better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Berkeley NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Berkeley, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $515,669 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS134598-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11046383 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, ALS, or other neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to autophagy or those in very early stages of these conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the process of autophagy, which is crucial for clearing damaged components in brain cells. By examining how specific lipid levels influence autophagy in neurons, the study aims to uncover new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS. The researchers will use advanced techniques such as cryo-electron microscopy and cell imaging to analyze the mechanisms that regulate autophagy in brain cells. This could lead to innovative approaches to enhance neuronal health and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve the health of neurons and slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in enhancing autophagy as a therapeutic target in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating a potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Berkeley
Berkeley, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hurley, James H — University of California Berkeley
- Study coordinator: Hurley, James H
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.