Investigating how proteins that manage mitochondria affect brain function in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Dynamin-related protein 1 and mitochondrial fission adapters regulate presynaptic function
Funded at University of Nevada Reno · NIH-11033965 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called DRP1 and how it works with other proteins to help keep brain cells healthy, especially in conditions like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to support brain function as we age.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nevada Reno NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Reno, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $28,358 |
| NIH project number | 3R01NS119980-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033965 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 for age-related neurological disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurological conditions or those not affected by age-related cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of a protein called Dynamin-related protein 1 (DRP1) and its interaction with other proteins that regulate mitochondrial fission in the brain. By studying how these interactions impact the function of presynaptic terminals, which are crucial for neurotransmission, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to improve brain health in age-related neurological diseases like Alzheimer's. The approach includes examining the effects of specific mitochondrial fission adapter proteins on synaptic transmission and exploring ways to restore function when DRP1 is absent. This could lead to new strategies for preventing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve brain function and slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting mitochondrial dysfunction as a therapeutic approach in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this line of investigation could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Nevada Reno
Reno, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Renden, Robert B — University of Nevada Reno
- Study coordinator: Renden, Robert B
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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.