Repetitive DNA and R‑loops in Alzheimer's and related dementias
Elucidating the Roles of Transposable Elements in Alzheimer's and related dementias
Researchers are looking at whether repetitive DNA elements and R‑loops tied to the TDP‑43 protein contribute to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias, to help people living with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11322158 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project focuses on a protein called TDP‑43 and how it controls repetitive DNA sequences (transposable elements) and three‑stranded R‑loop structures in the genome. The team will study human Alzheimer's brain tissue and laboratory models, including 3‑D cell models, to see how changes in TDP‑43 lead to harmful R‑loops and transposon activity. They will use molecular biology, imaging, and genetic analyses to map these events and understand how they affect neuron health. The goal is to connect these molecular changes to disease progression in people with Alzheimer's and related dementias.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be older adults diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, or people willing to donate brain tissue or other clinical samples to research.
Not a fit: People without Alzheimer's or TDP‑43 related pathology, or those not able to provide samples or travel to participating centers, are unlikely to benefit directly.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new biomarkers or drug targets that help slow or prevent Alzheimer's progression.
How similar studies have performed: Related laboratory studies have suggested links between TDP‑43, transposons, and neurodegeneration, but translating these findings into patient treatments is still early and largely unproven.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jin, Peng — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Jin, Peng
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.