Investigating how TDP-43 protein aggregates affect neuron function and toxicity

Determine the neurotoxicity of RNA metabolism dysfunction caused by cytoplasmic TDP-43 aggregates

['FUNDING_R01'] · UT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-10931669

This study is looking at how clumps of a protein called TDP-43 might mess with tiny structures in nerve cells that help them work properly, which could be important for understanding diseases like ALS and Alzheimer's, and it could help find new ways to treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUT SOUTHWESTERN MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded)
Locations1 site (DALLAS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10931669 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of TDP-43 protein aggregates in disrupting the function of P-bodies in neurons, which may lead to neurotoxicity. The study will utilize advanced imaging, proteomic, and sequencing techniques to analyze how these aggregates alter the composition and behavior of P-bodies in both neuron-like cells and postmortem spinal cord motor neurons from ALS patients. By examining these changes, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's and ALS, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, related dementias, or ALS.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not associated with TDP-43 aggregates may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and ALS.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of examining TDP-43 aggregates in relation to P-body function is novel, similar studies have shown promising results in understanding neurodegenerative processes.

Where this research is happening

DALLAS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease and related dementia, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.