Investigating how TFAP4 affects lysosome function and tau-related brain diseases

Evaluation of TFAP4 regulation of lysosome biogenesis and modulation of tau pathology

NIH-funded research Yale University · NIH-11066701

This study is looking at how a protein called TFAP4 can help improve the way our cells clean up harmful proteins linked to Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to protect brain cells and help people with neurodegenerative conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionYale University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (New Haven, United States)
Project IDNIH-11066701 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of TFAP4 in regulating lysosome biogenesis, which is crucial for clearing toxic proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. By enhancing the autophagy-lysosome pathway, the study aims to find new therapeutic strategies to prevent or reduce neuron loss caused by toxic tau accumulation. The approach includes in vitro experiments to assess how manipulating TFAP4 levels can influence lysosomal function and potentially improve outcomes for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related tauopathies.

Not a fit: Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those without tau pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related conditions.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in targeting lysosomal function to treat neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach may be viable.

Where this research is happening

New Haven, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.