Investigating how to improve the breakdown of harmful proteins in the brain to help with prion diseases.
Official title: Activation of Neuronal Degradative Pathways to Ameliorate Prion Disease
Funded at Scripps Research Institute, the · NIH-10855708 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into prion diseases, which are rare brain disorders, to understand how harmful proteins build up in nerve cells and cause problems, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these conditions and related issues like Alzheimer's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Scripps Research Institute, the NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $871,963 |
| NIH project number | 1R56NS131648-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10855708 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with prion diseases or Alzheimer's disease who are experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those without cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding prion diseases, which are rare neurodegenerative conditions that lead to severe brain damage. The study examines how misfolded proteins accumulate in neurons and disrupt their function, particularly in axons, which are crucial for nerve signal transmission. By exploring the mechanisms behind lysosomal degradation pathways in axons, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets that could enhance the removal of these harmful protein aggregates. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for prion diseases and related dementias, such as Alzheimer's.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that improve brain health and function in patients with prion diseases and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting lysosomal dysfunction in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach may be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
Scripps Research Institute, the
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Encalada, Sandra E — Scripps Research Institute, the
- Study coordinator: Encalada, Sandra E
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.