Investigating how serotonin can help prevent protein misfolding in age-related diseases

Role of serotonergic-activation of heat shock transcription factor in the regulation of age-related protein misfolding and toxicity in mammalian systems

['FUNDING_R21'] · ROSWELL PARK CANCER INSTITUTE CORP · NIH-10896746

This study is looking at how serotonin might help protect brain cells from damage caused by misfolded proteins, which can lead to age-related diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and it aims to find new ways to keep your brain healthy as you age.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorROSWELL PARK CANCER INSTITUTE CORP (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BUFFALO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10896746 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research explores the role of serotonin in activating a key protein, heat shock transcription factor 1 (HSF1), which helps protect cells from the harmful effects of protein misfolding associated with age-related diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. By understanding how to effectively activate HSF1 in patients, the research aims to find new ways to combat the accumulation of toxic proteins in the brain. The approach involves studying the effects of serotonin on cellular models to see if it can reduce protein aggregation and improve cell survival.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults who are at risk for or are experiencing symptoms of age-related neurodegenerative diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with non-age-related conditions or those not experiencing protein misfolding issues may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that help prevent or mitigate the effects of debilitating age-related neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in activating HSF1 to combat protein misfolding, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

BUFFALO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.