Investigating how hyperphosphorylated tau protein affects brain function and cognition
Official title: Cellular and Molecular Mechanisms of Neurotoxicity and Cognitive Deficits Due to Hyperphosphorylated Tau
Funded at University of Virginia · NIH-10994896 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific form of tau protein might harm brain cells and affect thinking in Alzheimer's disease, using mice to help find new ways to treat people with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Virginia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlottesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $73,828 |
| NIH project number | 1F32AG089892-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10994896 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 exhibiting early signs of cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of hyperphosphorylated tau protein in causing neurotoxicity and cognitive deficits associated with Alzheimer's disease. The researchers will use advanced techniques to create and analyze hyperphosphorylated tau oligomers, examining their effects on brain cells and cognitive functions in mouse models. By studying how these proteins induce neuroinflammation and disrupt synaptic plasticity, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that mitigate cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau pathology, but this specific approach to studying hyperphosphorylated tau is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Virginia
Charlottesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Phan, Duy — University of Virginia
- Study coordinator: Phan, Duy
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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.