Seeing how protein clumps form in neurons' secretory pathways
In situ cryo-EM of protein condensates in the early secretory pathway of neurons
Using powerful frozen-electron microscopes, researchers will watch how proteins gather inside neurons to better understand Alzheimer's disease.
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 ID | NIH-11180374 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses very high-resolution cryo-electron microscopy to look inside neurons and observe tiny protein condensates forming along the early secretory pathway. It targets nanoscale regions such as ER exit sites and Golgi outposts that sort and route proteins to axons or dendrites. By mapping where and how these protein clusters form, scientists aim to link disrupted protein trafficking and loss of neuronal polarity to processes seen in Alzheimer's. The work is laboratory-based and focuses on imaging neuronal samples rather than testing treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions who are willing to discuss tissue donation or participate in related sample-collection efforts could be eligible to contribute to this work.
Not a fit: Those seeking immediate new treatments or clinical care are unlikely to benefit directly because this is basic laboratory imaging research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could reveal cellular steps that go wrong in Alzheimer's and point to new biological targets for future therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Cryo-EM has revolutionized structural biology, but applying in situ cryo-EM to neuronal secretory pathways and protein condensates is a relatively new and emerging approach.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ernst, Andreas Max — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Ernst, Andreas Max
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.