Investigating how brain injuries affect tau protein spread in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Traumatic axonopathy and Alzheimer tau propagation
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10590970 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain injuries might lead to the spread of harmful proteins that can cause diseases like Alzheimer's, and it’s for anyone interested in understanding how we can potentially prevent these issues after a brain injury.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $450,313 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS126884-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10590970 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced traumatic brain injuries and are at risk for developing tauopathies like Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a history of traumatic brain injury or those not affected by tauopathies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the connection between traumatic brain injuries and the spread of tau protein aggregates in the brain, which are linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The study examines how damage to nerve fibers can influence the development and progression of tauopathies. Researchers will explore the role of a specific protein, SARM1, which is involved in nerve degeneration, and test small molecules that may help prevent this process. By studying these interactions, the research aims to uncover new insights into how tau-related diseases develop after brain injuries.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow the progression of tau-related neurodegenerative diseases in patients with a history of brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between traumatic brain injuries and tau propagation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koliatsos, Vassilis E — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Koliatsos, Vassilis E
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.