Investigating how tau protein interacts with RNA in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Pathological Implications of the tau-RNA Interaction
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11134864 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called tau interacts with RNA in Alzheimer's disease and other brain disorders, to see if these interactions can help protect the brain or make things worse, which could lead to new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $419,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG093972-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11134864 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at various stages of Alzheimer's disease, from those with no symptoms to those diagnosed with the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tauopathies unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the relationship between tau protein and RNA in the context of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. It aims to understand how these interactions may contribute to the accumulation of tau and its associated toxicity. By examining RNA motifs that bind to tau at different stages of disease progression, the study seeks to identify whether these interactions can either protect against or promote the development of tau-related pathology. The findings could provide insights into the mechanisms of Alzheimer's disease and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting tau-RNA interactions.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on tau-RNA interactions is relatively novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding tau pathology in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Koren, John — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Koren, John
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.