Investigating how mitochondrial dysfunction affects tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Mitochondrial dysfunction and tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease
Funded at University of Rochester · NIH-10805120 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with tiny energy factories in our cells, called mitochondria, might be linked to the brain changes seen in Alzheimer's disease, and it uses special light technology to see how these issues affect brain health in both lab samples and live mice.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2023 |
| Project end | September 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $423,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG085324-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10805120 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or are at risk for developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between mitochondrial dysfunction and tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease (AD), which is a leading cause of dementia. Using innovative optogenetic technology, the study aims to manipulate mitochondrial function and reactive oxygen species (ROS) production in real-time to determine their roles in the progression of tau pathology. By employing light-activated tools, researchers will be able to control these processes in both brain slice cultures and live mouse models, providing insights into the underlying mechanisms of AD. This approach seeks to clarify the complex interactions between these factors and their impact on neuronal health.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific optogenetic approach is novel, previous research has shown that targeting mitochondrial function can have beneficial effects in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Rochester
Rochester, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wojtovich, Andrew Phillip — University of Rochester
- Study coordinator: Wojtovich, Andrew Phillip
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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.