Investigating how sulfatide affects tau protein development in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: The role of sulfatide in the development of tauopathy in the context of ADRD
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-11193445 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a brain fat called sulfatide might affect the buildup of tau protein, which is linked to Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find ways to help delay or prevent dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2024 |
| Project end | May 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $602,040 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG085545-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11193445 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include older adults who are at risk for Alzheimer's disease or have early signs of dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative forms of dementia or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of sulfatide, a lipid found in the brain, in the development of tauopathy, which is associated with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. The study will explore how the loss of sulfatide correlates with increased tau phosphorylation and its implications for brain function. Researchers will utilize various animal models to assess the impact of sulfatide levels on tau protein accumulation and the progression of Alzheimer's disease. By examining these relationships, the research aims to uncover potential therapeutic targets for delaying or preventing dementia.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or slowing the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between lipid levels and tau pathology, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Han, Xianlin — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Han, Xianlin
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.