Investigating how sugar modifications of tau protein contribute to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Non-enzymatic post-translational modifications as drivers of AD pathology
Funded at University of Colorado · NIH-11081040 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in sugar on certain proteins might affect Alzheimer's disease in people with type 2 diabetes, with the hope of finding better ways to diagnose and treat Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Colorado NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boulder, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 1, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $721,551 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG087295-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11081040 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with a history of type 2 diabetes or advanced age.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Alzheimer's disease or those who do not have risk factors such as type 2 diabetes may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between Alzheimer's disease (AD) and type 2 diabetes by examining how sugar modifications on tau proteins may influence AD pathology. The study will utilize advanced models to analyze how these modifications affect tau protein aggregation, neurotoxicity, and inflammation in the brain. By understanding these molecular mechanisms, the research aims to improve diagnostic accuracy for AD and identify potential new treatment strategies targeting these modifications.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses and innovative therapies for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of glycation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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University of Colorado
Boulder, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Walczak, Maciej — University of Colorado
- Study coordinator: Walczak, Maciej
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.