Investigating the toxicity of protein aggregates in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Are all Protein Aggregates Toxic?
Funded at Michigan Technological University · NIH-10580153 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain protein clumps can be harmful to brain cells, which is important for understanding diseases like Alzheimer's, and it aims to find out what makes these clumps toxic so we can eventually develop better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Michigan Technological University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houghton, United States) |
| Project start | September 22, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $439,333 |
| NIH project number | 1R15GM148964-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10580153 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 symptoms of neurodegenerative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-neurodegenerative conditions or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to understand the toxic effects of protein aggregates, which are linked to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The team will analyze various proteins, including the Aβ42 peptide, insulin, and lysozyme, to identify their unique properties that contribute to toxicity. By examining factors such as the shape, size, and hydrophobicity of these aggregates, the researchers hope to uncover the mechanisms behind their harmful effects on cells. This study could lead to new insights into how protein aggregation contributes to diseases and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients with Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein aggregation and its role in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for significant findings.
Where this research is happening
-
Michigan Technological University
Houghton, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tiwari, Ashutosh — Michigan Technological University
- Study coordinator: Tiwari, Ashutosh
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.