Investigating the interaction between TDP-43 and Tau proteins in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Biophysical and Pathophysiological Studies of TDP-43/Tau Interaction
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11091501 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how two proteins, TDP-43 and Tau, work together in the brain, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, to find new ways to help treat this condition and other similar brain disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 17, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $547,331 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS136684-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091501 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those experiencing age-related cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those not experiencing cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how TDP-43 and Tau proteins interact in both healthy and diseased states, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. Using advanced techniques like NMR and surface plasmon resonance, the study will explore how these proteins bind to each other and how this interaction can be disrupted by small molecules and peptides. The research will also examine the effects of these interactions on cellular behavior and phenotypes using a humanized model that mimics normal aging and injury. The ultimate goal is to identify new therapeutic strategies that could lead to effective treatments for Alzheimer's and other neurodegenerative conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of novel therapies that specifically target the harmful interactions between TDP-43 and Tau, potentially improving outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting protein interactions in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khanna, May — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Khanna, May
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.