Understanding how abnormal tau proteins spread in Alzheimer's disease
Mechanism of Pathologic Tau Fibrils Neuron-to-Neuron Transmission and Neuroinflammation in Alzheimer's Disease
This project explores how harmful tau proteins move between brain cells in Alzheimer's disease and how we might stop them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11088752 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
In Alzheimer's disease, abnormal tau proteins form tangles that spread throughout the brain, causing damage and inflammation. We are learning how these harmful tau proteins travel from one brain cell to another. Our work has identified a specific protein, called Lag3, that appears to be crucial for this spreading process. By understanding how Lag3 works, we hope to find new ways to block the spread of tau and develop new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals living with or at risk for Alzheimer's disease in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical trial participation would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new therapies that slow or stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease by preventing the spread of harmful tau proteins.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of Lag3 in tau spreading is a novel finding, other studies have shown success in targeting protein transmission mechanisms in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
Baltimore, United States
- Johns Hopkins University — Baltimore, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mao, Xiaobo — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Mao, Xiaobo
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.