Tools to detect misfolded huntingtin protein
Genetically Encoded Probes of Huntingtin Misfolding
This project builds genetically encoded peptides that stick to early misfolded huntingtin so these toxic forms can be found and targeted in Huntington's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Southern California NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Project ID | NIH-11145155 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
The researchers will create small, genetically encoded peptide ligands designed to bind early misfolded forms of the huntingtin exon1 protein. They will test these probes in cells and animal models and with tissue samples to see if the probes reliably detect or bind the early species that seed aggregation. If binding works, the team will explore using the probes as biomarkers to detect disease-relevant misfolding and as tools to block seeding and spread. The work combines peptide-discovery, protein-structure expertise, and model-based testing led at the University of Southern California.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People who carry the Huntington's disease gene expansion or have Huntington's disease would be the eventual candidates for related biomarker tests or future therapies.
Not a fit: People without the HTT gene expansion or those with non‑Huntington neurodegenerative conditions are unlikely to benefit from this specific work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these probes could enable earlier detection of toxic huntingtin species and point toward ways to block their spread, potentially slowing disease progression.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work targeting misfolded protein species has shown promise in lab models, but using genetically encoded peptides to bind early huntingtin intermediates is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- University of Southern California — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Langen, Ralf — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Langen, Ralf
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.