Investigating how tau protein affects brain cell balance in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Transcriptomic and Proteomic Analysis of Tau-dependent E/I Imbalance
Funded at J. David Gladstone Institutes · NIH-10789541 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called tau affects brain activity in people with Alzheimer's disease, and it hopes to find new ways to help treat this condition by seeing what happens when tau levels are lowered.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | J. David Gladstone Institutes NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project start | September 16, 2023 |
| Project end | September 15, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $519,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG085079-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10789541 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those without cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of tau protein in the balance of excitation and inhibition in brain networks, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. By examining how reducing tau levels can influence brain cell activity, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms that contribute to brain disorders. The researchers will use advanced techniques to analyze specific brain cells and their interactions, which could lead to new insights into potential treatments for Alzheimer's and related conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in animal models regarding the role of tau reduction in improving symptoms of brain disorders, indicating a potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
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J. David Gladstone Institutes
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mucke, Lennart — J. David Gladstone Institutes
- Study coordinator: Mucke, Lennart
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.