NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating how circular RNAs affect protein changes in Alzheimer's disease

Official title: Changes in protein glycosylation due to translation of mannosidases encoded by circular RNAs

Funded at University of Kentucky · NIH-10885423 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain circular RNAs might affect the way proteins are modified in Alzheimer's disease, which could help us understand the disease better and find new ways to treat it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Kentucky
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Lexington, United States)
Project startMay 1, 2024
Project endApril 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$420,750
NIH project number1R21AG087332-01
Project IDNIH-10885423 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

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

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of dementia or neurological disorders unrelated to Alzheimer's may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how circular RNAs, specifically those related to mannosidases, influence protein glycosylation in the context of Alzheimer's disease. The study examines the expression of two specific circular RNAs, MAN2A1 and MAN1A2, and their role in the progression of Alzheimer's. By analyzing how these circular RNAs are translated and how they affect protein modifications, the research aims to uncover new molecular mechanisms that could be linked to disease severity. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the biochemical changes associated with Alzheimer's, potentially leading to new therapeutic targets.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for diagnosing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting specific molecular changes.

How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of studying circular RNAs in this context is relatively novel, similar research has shown promise in understanding RNA editing and its implications in neurodegenerative diseases.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Kentucky
    Lexington, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Stamm, Stefan — University of Kentucky
  • Study coordinator: Stamm, Stefan

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.