Investigating how chaperones affect TDP-43 in ALS
Official title: Exploring chaperone code control of TDP-43 function in ALS
Funded at University of North Carolina Charlotte · NIH-10724923 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a helper protein called Hsp70 affects another protein linked to ALS, to find new ways to treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of North Carolina Charlotte NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlotte, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $413,826 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS133682-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10724923 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS) or related neurodegenerative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other unrelated neurodegenerative diseases or those without TDP-43 aggregation issues may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the Hsp70 molecular chaperone in the aggregation of TDP-43, a protein linked to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). By examining how post-translational modifications of Hsp70 influence TDP-43's function and toxicity, the study aims to uncover potential therapeutic strategies for ALS. The researchers will utilize advanced techniques such as cross-linking mass spectrometry to analyze the interactions between Hsp70 and TDP-43 in both mammalian and yeast cells. This work could lead to a better understanding of the molecular mechanisms underlying ALS and identify new targets for treatment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that mitigate the effects of ALS by targeting TDP-43 aggregation.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, previous studies have shown promise in targeting protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of North Carolina Charlotte
Charlotte, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Truman, Andrew William — University of North Carolina Charlotte
- Study coordinator: Truman, Andrew William
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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.