Investigating how traumatic brain injury affects tau and amyloid proteins
Official title: Traumatic Axonal Injury: Tau and Amyloid Pathogenesis in vitro
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10986188 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a traumatic brain injury might lead to the buildup of certain proteins in the brain that are connected to Alzheimer's disease, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how brain injuries could affect long-term brain health.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | May 28, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $446,875 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135384-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986188 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a traumatic brain injury and are at risk for developing Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a traumatic brain injury or do not have a risk of Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the effects of traumatic brain injury (TBI) on the development of tau and amyloid-beta proteins, which are linked to Alzheimer's disease. The researchers will study how traumatic axonal injury (TAI) leads to the accumulation of these proteins in neurons, potentially contributing to neurodegeneration. By examining the cellular mechanisms involved, the study aims to uncover whether the response to injury is protective or harmful. This work is conducted in vitro, meaning it will take place in a controlled laboratory environment using cell cultures.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias following traumatic brain injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the relationship between traumatic brain injury and neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Douglas Hamilton — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Smith, Douglas Hamilton
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.