Lysosome metabolism and its link to protein cleanup, aging, and Alzheimer’s tau changes
Lysosomal NADPH metabolism regulates proteostasis, aging and tauopathy
Explores whether changes in a cell compartment called the lysosome help cells clear damaged proteins and reduce Alzheimer’s-related tau problems for people at risk of Alzheimer’s.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11167842 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research uses laboratory models to study how lysosomes — parts of cells that break down waste — control protein balance as we age and how that relates to Alzheimer’s changes, especially abnormal Tau protein. The team combines experiments in tiny worms, Alzheimer-model mice, and cell systems to trace a signaling pathway from lysosomal NADPH metabolism to protein quality control in the endoplasmic reticulum. By mapping these molecular steps, they aim to identify biochemical points that could be targeted to keep brain proteins from aggregating. The work is laboratory-focused and seeks findings that could guide future therapies or prevention strategies for Alzheimer’s.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Findings would be most relevant to people with or at risk for Alzheimer’s disease, including those with mild cognitive impairment or a family history of Alzheimer’s.
Not a fit: Because this is preclinical laboratory research, it does not offer immediate treatments or patient interventions for people seeking current therapy.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal new biological targets to protect brain cells, potentially leading to therapies that slow or prevent Alzheimer’s-related protein buildup.
How similar studies have performed: Prior preclinical studies have shown that improving lysosomal function can enhance protein clearance in cell and animal models, but these approaches have not yet produced proven human treatments.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- Baylor College of Medicine — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dang, Weiwei — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Dang, Weiwei
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.