Investigating how tau protein spreads in the brain related to Alzheimer's disease
Assessment of a novel tau propagation pathway from layer II medial entorhinal cortical neurons to CA1 pyramidal neurons as an early Braak stage mouse model
This study is looking at how a protein linked to Alzheimer's disease spreads in the brain, using a special mouse model to mimic what happens in people, with the hope of finding new ways to slow down the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Jacksonville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jacksonville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11080244 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how abnormally phosphorylated tau protein propagates from specific neurons in the entorhinal cortex to the CA1 region of the hippocampus, which is crucial in the early stages of Alzheimer's disease. By using a novel mouse model, the study aims to replicate the progression of tau pathology as seen in human patients. The researchers will employ advanced techniques, including stereotaxic injections of adeno-associated viruses, to track and analyze tau propagation and its effects on neuronal function and memory. This approach could lead to new therapeutic targets for preventing or slowing down the progression of Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for Alzheimer's disease, particularly those in the early stages of cognitive decline.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Alzheimer's disease or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting tau propagation.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau propagation in other contexts, but this specific approach is novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Jacksonville, United States
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville — Jacksonville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ikezu, Tsuneya — Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
- Study coordinator: Ikezu, Tsuneya
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 below.