Understanding how a specific protein affects the spread of tau in Alzheimer's disease

Deciphering the Molecular Features Underlying LRP1-Mediated Tau Spread

NIH-funded research University of Massachusetts Amherst · NIH-11076806

This study is looking at how a specific receptor in the brain affects the spread of tau protein, which is important in Alzheimer's disease, to help find new ways to tackle the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Massachusetts Amherst NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Hadley, United States)
Project IDNIH-11076806 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of the LRP1 receptor in the spread of tau protein, which is a key factor in Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced techniques like mass spectrometry and TR-FRET, the researchers aim to uncover how modifications to tau influence its interaction with LRP1 and its subsequent spread in the brain. The study involves creating cellular models to simulate tau propagation and examining how different chemical changes to tau affect its behavior. This could lead to new insights into potential interventions for Alzheimer's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it due to genetic or environmental factors.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies to slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting tau interactions, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in Alzheimer's treatment.

Where this research is happening

Hadley, 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 dementia
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.