Investigating how metal-responsive factors affect neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Metal responsive transcription factors in neurodegeneration
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11141366 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins that respond to metals might help protect brain cells from damage in Alzheimer's disease, using fruit flies to learn more about the problem and find new ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $429,000 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG087381-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11141366 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to protein misfolding may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of metal-responsive transcription factors in the context of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease. By using a genetic model organism called Drosophila, the researchers aim to understand how misfolded proteins lead to neuronal degeneration and the underlying molecular mechanisms involved. The study focuses on the transcriptional changes that occur in response to these misfolded proteins and how manipulating these factors may protect against neurodegeneration. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of transcription factors in neurodegeneration, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Venkatachalam, Kartik — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Venkatachalam, Kartik
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.