Investigating how the SORLA gene may protect against Alzheimer's disease-related tau damage
Novel Neuroprotective Roles for the Alzheimer's Disease Risk Gene SORLA in Tau Pathology and Pathogenesis
This study is looking at how a gene called SORLA might help protect the brain from damage caused by Alzheimer's disease, using specially modified mice to see if boosting SORLA levels can reduce harmful changes in the brain, which could lead to new treatments for people with Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10991339 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the role of the SORLA gene in Alzheimer's disease, particularly its potential to protect against tau-related damage in the brain. By using genetically modified mice, the study examines how increasing SORLA levels can reduce harmful tau phosphorylation and associated brain changes. The research employs advanced techniques such as proteomic analysis and histological examination to assess the effects of SORLA on synaptic function and inflammation in the brain. Patients may benefit from insights gained about SORLA's protective mechanisms, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for 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 with genetic predispositions related to the SORLA gene.
Not a fit: Patients with Alzheimer's disease who do not have any genetic variants associated with the SORLA gene may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect against the progression of Alzheimer's disease by targeting tau pathology.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the neuroprotective roles of genes like SORLA, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Huang, Timothy Yikai — Sanford Burnham Prebys Medical Discovery Institute
- Study coordinator: Huang, Timothy Yikai
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.