NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Understanding how a protein affects nerve cell movement in Alzheimer's disease

Official title: Novel Mechanisms of APP-Go signaling in the control of neuronal motility

Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-9940616 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how a protein called APP affects the growth and movement of nerve cells, which is important for understanding Alzheimer's disease, and it aims to find out how problems with this protein might lead to nerve cell damage.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon Health & Science University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project startApril 1, 2020
Project endAugust 31, 2025
Funding year2020
Award (this year)$1,885,550
NIH project number1RF1NS115898-01
Project IDNIH-9940616 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the Amyloid Precursor Protein (APP) in controlling the movement and growth of nerve cells, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. By studying how APP interacts with specific proteins that influence neuronal behavior, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that may lead to neurodegeneration. The approach includes using a model organism to observe these processes in a simpler system, which could provide insights applicable to human health. The findings could help clarify how disruptions in APP signaling contribute to Alzheimer's disease.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Alzheimer's disease by targeting the mechanisms of neuronal motility.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that understanding protein signaling pathways can lead to significant advancements in treating neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential success for this approach.

Where this research is happening

  • Oregon Health & Science University
    Portland, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Copenhaver, Philip F — Oregon Health & Science University
  • Study coordinator: Copenhaver, Philip F

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.