Investigating how selective recycling of cellular materials affects aging and neurodegeneration
Official title: Role of selective autophagy in aging and neurodegeneration: a small molecule approach
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10775823 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a natural recycling process in our cells, which helps get rid of damaged materials, changes as we age and how it relates to diseases like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to keep our brains healthy and possibly slow down memory loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $126,250 |
| NIH project number | 5K99AG080109-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10775823 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing age-related cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative conditions unrelated to Alzheimer's or those in very early stages of cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of selective autophagy, a process that helps cells recycle damaged materials, in the context of aging and neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. By understanding how this recycling process can be disrupted with age, the researchers aim to identify potential interventions that could improve cellular health and function. The study will involve examining the accumulation of toxic substances in the brain and testing small molecules that may enhance the selective degradation of these harmful materials. Patients may benefit from new therapeutic strategies that target these mechanisms to slow down or prevent neurodegeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow the progression of Alzheimer's disease and improve the quality of life for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results in targeting autophagy for neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tan, Ee Phie — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Tan, Ee Phie
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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.