Investigating the role of TMEM106B in brain aging and neurodegenerative diseases

Function of TMEM106B in Neurodegeneration

NIH-funded research Cornell University · NIH-11051794

This study is looking at how a protein called TMEM106B affects brain aging and diseases like Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia, and it's for anyone interested in understanding how these conditions develop and how we might improve brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionCornell University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Ithaca, United States)
Project IDNIH-11051794 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding how the protein TMEM106B affects brain aging and contributes to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and frontotemporal dementia. The researchers will explore the cellular functions of TMEM106B, particularly its role in lysosome transport and autophagy, which are crucial for maintaining healthy brain function. By studying mice with TMEM106B deficiencies, they aim to uncover the mechanisms behind myelination defects and the accumulation of harmful proteins in the brain. This could lead to new insights into how neurodegenerative diseases develop and progress.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for or diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those with a family history of Alzheimer's or frontotemporal dementia.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to TMEM106B or those in advanced stages of these conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating or preventing neurodegenerative diseases.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of lysosomal proteins in neurodegeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Ithaca, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-10 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.