Investigating how prion proteins affect neuron signaling in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Determining pathogenic PrPC-induced signaling pathways in human iPSC-induced neurons
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10791127 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in our brain cells might affect communication between neurons and contribute to Alzheimer's disease, using special lab-grown brain cells to learn more about these processes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $434,500 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135426-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10791127 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 of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to prion proteins may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of prion proteins in the signaling pathways of neurons, particularly in relation to Alzheimer's disease. By using human induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to create neuron models, the researchers will explore how these proteins interact with other molecules and trigger cellular responses that may lead to synaptic loss. The study employs advanced techniques such as transcriptomics and proteomics to identify changes in gene expression and protein interactions in response to prion proteins. This could provide insights into the mechanisms underlying neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease by targeting the signaling pathways affected by prion proteins.
How similar studies have gone: While prion diseases are rare, previous research has shown promising results in understanding their mechanisms, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights into Alzheimer's disease as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sigurdson, Christina — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Sigurdson, Christina
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.