Investigating how protein regulation affects Alzheimer's-like symptoms in Down syndrome
Official title: Proteostasis dysregulation and the development of Alzheimer's-like neurodegeneration and dementia in Down syndrome
Funded at Temple Univ of the Commonwealth · NIH-10979169 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the brain might be linked to Alzheimer's-like changes in people with Down syndrome, and it hopes to find ways to help keep their brains healthier.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Temple Univ of the Commonwealth NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $489,358 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG080817-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979169 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with Down syndrome who may be at risk for developing Alzheimer's-like symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Down syndrome or those who do not exhibit any signs of neurodegeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the relationship between protein regulation and the development of Alzheimer's-like neurodegeneration in individuals with Down syndrome. It examines how an overactive cellular process, known as mTOR, may contribute to brain changes associated with Alzheimer's disease. By studying both human subjects and a mouse model of Down syndrome, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind these changes and their impact on brain health. The findings could lead to new insights into preventing or treating neurodegeneration in this population.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that improve brain health and reduce the risk of Alzheimer's disease in individuals with Down syndrome.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of protein regulation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Pratico, Domenico — Temple Univ of the Commonwealth
- Study coordinator: Pratico, Domenico
Related research
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Advance care planning for older adults with Down syndrome and early dementia
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Understanding cognitive variability in adults with Down syndrome and its link to Alzheimer’s disease biomarkers
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Understanding dementia in adults with Down syndrome
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Protein balance problems and Alzheimer's-like dementia in Down syndrome
This project asks whether disrupted protein management in the brain leads to Alzheimer's-like dementia in people with Down syndrome.
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.