Investigating protein behavior in brain models related to Alzheimer's disease

Multilineage DAmFRET to investigate AD/ADRD protein phase behavior in neural tissue models

NIH-funded research Stowers Institute for Medical Research · NIH-10768678

This study is looking at how a protein called TDP-43 behaves in brain cells made from human stem cells, to help us understand more about Alzheimer's Disease and related conditions, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these diseases.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStowers Institute for Medical Research NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Kansas City, United States)
Project IDNIH-10768678 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how specific proteins, particularly TDP-43, behave in brain tissue models derived from human stem cells. By using a novel technique called Distributed Amphifluoric FRET (DAmFRET), the researchers aim to observe how these proteins transition between different states and how this affects interactions between various brain cell types. The goal is to develop a new tool that can help clarify the complex molecular and cellular mechanisms underlying Alzheimer's Disease and Related Dementias (AD/ADRD). This could lead to better insights into the disease's progression and potential therapeutic targets.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those interested in contributing to advancements in understanding these conditions.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have Alzheimer's disease or related dementias may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for understanding and potentially treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using DAmFRET in this context is innovative, similar methodologies have shown promise in other areas of biomedical research, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Kansas City, 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 2026-06-13 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.