Targeting misfolded proteins to combat dementia
Official title: Novel fibril-selective nanobody-based agents targeting intracellular and extracellular α-synuclein aggregates and prion-like propagation induced dementia
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10882038 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new treatments that use tiny proteins to target and stop the harmful buildup of certain proteins in the brain that are linked to dementia, like Alzheimer's and Lewy Body Dementia, with the hope of slowing down symptoms for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,280,379 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS137428-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10882038 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Lewy Body Dementia, or related neurodegenerative disorders characterized by α-synuclein accumulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with dementia not associated with α-synuclein pathology or those with other unrelated neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing novel nanobody-based agents that specifically target misfolded α-synuclein proteins, which are implicated in various forms of dementia, including Alzheimer's disease and Lewy Body Dementia. The approach involves understanding how these proteins propagate within the brain and contribute to neurodegeneration. By using advanced techniques to identify and neutralize these harmful aggregates, the research aims to halt or slow down the progression of dementia symptoms in affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that significantly improve cognitive function and quality of life for patients with dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting misfolded proteins in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Wenjing — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Wang, Wenjing
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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.