New methods to visualize tau protein changes in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: New Tools to Image Tau Protein Form and Function
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-11161018 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to see how tau protein changes in the brain, which is important for understanding Alzheimer's disease, and it could help create better tools for diagnosing this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | May 15, 2025 |
| Project end | April 30, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $437,250 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG091821-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11161018 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it due to genetic or age-related factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tau-related conditions other than Alzheimer's disease may not receive direct benefits from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how tau protein transitions from a soluble form to neurofibrillary tangles, which are associated with Alzheimer's disease. It aims to develop a novel imaging technique using a peptide-based probe that can visualize tau in its various forms within living cells. By employing a method called aggregation-induced emission (AIE), the research will measure the tau protein's behavior as it undergoes different phases, providing insights into its role in neurodegenerative diseases. This innovative approach could enhance our understanding of tau-related pathologies and potentially lead to new diagnostic tools.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic methods for Alzheimer's disease by allowing for real-time visualization of tau protein changes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using innovative imaging techniques for studying protein aggregation, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jokerst, Jesse Vincent — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Jokerst, Jesse Vincent
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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.