New medicines for Alzheimer's disease and related memory problems by focusing on a protein called TDP-43
Therapeutics targeting TDP-43 to treat Alzheimer's disease and related disorders
This project looks for new medicines that target a specific protein, TDP-43, which is linked to memory decline in people with Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | U01 cooperative agreement |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Fox Chase Chemical Diversity Center, INC NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Doylestown, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11123431 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We know that a protein called TDP-43 often builds up in the brains of people with Alzheimer's disease, and this buildup is connected to memory loss. This condition, sometimes called LATE, affects a significant number of people with dementia. Our team has found small molecules that can attach to TDP-43, stopping it from clumping together and potentially preventing its harmful effects. We believe these molecules could become new treatments for Alzheimer's and other related memory disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, particularly those where the TDP-43 protein plays a role in their condition.
Not a fit: Patients whose dementia is not related to TDP-43 protein changes may not directly benefit from this specific therapeutic approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia that are linked to the TDP-43 protein.
How similar studies have performed: This approach is novel in its focus on specific small molecules to inhibit TDP-43 aggregation, though the importance of TDP-43 in dementia is increasingly recognized.
Where this research is happening
Doylestown, United States
- Fox Chase Chemical Diversity Center, INC — Doylestown, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Reitz, Allen Bernard — Fox Chase Chemical Diversity Center, INC
- Study coordinator: Reitz, Allen Bernard
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.