Prion-like changes in gene-controlling BAF (SWI/SNF) proteins and the Swi1 prion
Understanding prion-mediated transcriptional modifications and cellular phenotypes: insights into the role of Swi1 prion and prion-like behaviors of BAF proteins
This project looks into whether prion-like changes in gene-regulating BAF proteins and the yeast Swi1 prion can change how cells and genes behave, which could matter for Alzheimer's, some cancers, and other disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11136332 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research uses yeast as a lab model to study a prion form of a gene-regulating protein called Swi1 and to see how different prion 'variants' change gene activity and cell behavior. The team will use genetic, biochemical, and cell-based experiments to map how prion-like switches in these proteins alter transcription and cellular phenotypes. They will also test whether human SWI/SNF (BAF) complex proteins can adopt similar prion-like shapes in laboratory-grown cells. By linking these mechanisms to proteins implicated in Alzheimer's disease and cancers, the work aims to highlight molecular targets for future therapies or diagnostics.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: There is no current patient enrollment, but the findings would be most relevant to people with Alzheimer's disease, cancers driven by SWI/SNF (BAF) mutations, or related neurodegenerative conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to protein misfolding or SWI/SNF/BAF dysfunction are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the project could reveal new molecular mechanisms and targets that might lead to therapies or diagnostics for Alzheimer's disease, cancers with SWI/SNF (BAF) involvement, and related neurological disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Prior yeast and cell-based work has demonstrated prion-like behavior for proteins such as Aβ, tau, and α-synuclein, but applying these approaches to Swi1 and human BAF components is largely novel.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Du, Zhiqiang — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Du, Zhiqiang
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.