Understanding how a protein helps protect against Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementias

Chaperone protection in Lewy body and Alzheimer’s dementias: determining the structural, molecular and cellular mechanisms of a novel, non-canonical Hsp70 action blocking a-synuclein oligomerization

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10823333

This study is looking at how a protein called Hsp70 helps protect brain cells from the damage caused by harmful proteins linked to Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementias, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10823333 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a specific protein, Hsp70, in protecting brain cells from the harmful effects of misfolded proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementias. By exploring the mechanisms through which Hsp70 prevents the aggregation of toxic proteins like alpha-synuclein and tau, the study aims to identify new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for these debilitating conditions. The research employs advanced cellular and molecular techniques to uncover the protective actions of Hsp70.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or Lewy body dementia.

Not a fit: Patients with other types of dementia not related to Alzheimer's or Lewy body pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementias.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting protein misfolding in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may be viable.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

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 below.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.