Investigating how tau protein spreads in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Heparan Sulfate 3-O-Sulfation in Transcellular Propagation of Tauopathy in Alzheimer's Disease
Funded at Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute · NIH-10875754 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called tau, which forms tangles in the brains of people with Alzheimer's, affects thinking and memory, and aims to find new treatments that could help slow down the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Troy, United States) |
| Project start | September 15, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $554,778 |
| NIH project number | 4R01AG069039-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10875754 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how neurofibrillary tangles, which are made of tau protein, contribute to cognitive decline in Alzheimer's disease. The team will explore the interactions between tau and specific molecules on the surface of neurons, aiming to uncover the structural details of these interactions. By studying these processes at molecular, cellular, and organismal levels, the researchers hope to identify potential drugs that can disrupt tau propagation and modify the course of the disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or alter the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting tau interactions, indicating that this approach could lead to significant advancements in Alzheimer's treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
Troy, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Chunyu — Rensselaer Polytechnic Institute
- Study coordinator: Wang, Chunyu
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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.