Understanding how amyloid beta affects neurons in Alzheimer's disease

Using Chirality to Understand and Control Amyloid Beta Neuronal Uptake and Toxicity

NIH-funded research University of California Santa Cruz · NIH-11080284

This study is looking at how different forms of a protein called amyloid beta affect brain cells, which is important for finding new treatments for Alzheimer's disease, and it's being done by a team of experts working together to help protect brain health.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California Santa Cruz NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Santa Cruz, United States)
Project IDNIH-11080284 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the relationship between amyloid beta (Aβ) uptake by neurons and its toxicity, which is crucial for developing treatments for Alzheimer's disease. The team will use advanced techniques to create stable samples of Aβ in different forms and analyze how these forms interact with neurons. By understanding the structural properties of Aβ aggregates, the research aims to identify ways to prevent their harmful effects on brain cells. This collaborative effort involves experts from various fields to ensure a comprehensive approach to the problem.

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 amyloid beta pathology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that mitigate the toxic effects of amyloid beta in Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding amyloid beta's role in Alzheimer's, but this specific chirality-based approach is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

Santa Cruz, 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.
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.