Investigating how mitochondrial proteins are modified in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Ubiquitination of Mitochondrial Proteins in Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign · NIH-10989375 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with tiny parts of our cells called mitochondria might play a role in Alzheimer's disease, focusing on a specific protein called Nedd4L, to help find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Champaign, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $436,150 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG089491-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10989375 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 due to familial history.
✕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 focuses on understanding the role of mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer's disease (AD) by examining the ubiquitination of specific mitochondrial proteins. Researchers will study a protein called Nedd4L, which is linked to mitochondrial function and is altered in a mouse model of familial AD. By using various mouse models, the team aims to uncover how changes in Nedd4L affect mitochondrial health and contribute to neurodegeneration. This could lead to identifying new therapeutic targets for treating Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve mitochondrial function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in Alzheimer's, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Champaign, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tsai, Nien-Pei — University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
- Study coordinator: Tsai, Nien-Pei
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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.