Investigating the role of protein balance and inflammation in frontotemporal dementia
Proteostasis, Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration in Frontotemporal Dementia
This study is looking at how problems with proteins and inflammation might lead to brain cell damage in people with frontotemporal dementia, especially those with a specific genetic change, to find new ways to help protect their brain cells.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | J. David Gladstone Institutes NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11130812 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how disruptions in protein balance and inflammation contribute to neurodegeneration in frontotemporal dementia (FTD), particularly in individuals with GRN haploinsufficiency. The study utilizes advanced techniques to analyze neurons and microglia derived from patients' induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to uncover the mechanisms behind toxic protein accumulation and neuronal damage. By examining the interactions between healthy and diseased cells, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets to restore normal cellular function and protect neurons from degeneration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia, particularly those with GRN haploinsufficiency.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia not related to GRN haploinsufficiency may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of frontotemporal dementia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neurodegeneration through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- J. David Gladstone Institutes — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Finkbeiner, Steven M — J. David Gladstone Institutes
- Study coordinator: Finkbeiner, Steven M
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 below.