Investigating how hyperphosphorylated tau affects brain health in Alzheimer's patients.
Official title: Treating neurotoxicity and cognitive deficits due to hyperphosphorylated tau.
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10933572 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease affects brain cells and thinking skills in older adults, and it aims to find ways to reduce these harmful effects using existing medications.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $608,361 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS135693-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10933572 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults aged 65 and over, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease or related cognitive impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are younger than 65 or do not have Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the toxic effects of hyperphosphorylated tau, a protein associated with Alzheimer's disease, on neurons. The study will explore how these tau oligomers contribute to neurotoxicity and cognitive deficits, particularly in older adults. Researchers will use animal models to examine the effects of tau injections on brain function and behavior, and they will also investigate potential treatments with existing medications that may mitigate these harmful effects. The goal is to uncover mechanisms of toxicity and identify therapeutic strategies that could benefit patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive function and overall brain health in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting tau-related toxicity in Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights and potential breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kuan, Chia-Yi — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Kuan, Chia-Yi
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.