Investigating tau protein structures in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Fibrillar polymorphs in human brain tissue
Funded at Northeastern University · NIH-10733496 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at the different types of tau protein that build up in the brains of people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions, to see how these variations might affect the disease's progression and symptoms, which could help improve understanding and treatment for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northeastern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,112,290 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG079946-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10733496 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other tauopathies, particularly those experiencing varying symptoms and disease progression.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-tau related neurodegenerative disorders or those without a diagnosis of Alzheimer's disease or tauopathies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the different forms of tau protein that accumulate in the brains of individuals with Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. By examining brain tissue samples, the study aims to identify how variations in tau structures may influence the progression and symptoms of these neurodegenerative disorders. The research employs advanced imaging techniques to observe tau deposits in situ, allowing for a detailed analysis of their composition and behavior throughout the disease process. This could lead to insights into how tau pathology varies among patients and its impact on clinical outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more personalized treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related conditions by identifying specific tau characteristics that influence disease progression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tauopathies through similar approaches, indicating that this line of investigation is both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
-
Northeastern University
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Makowski, Lee — Northeastern University
- Study coordinator: Makowski, Lee
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.