Understanding how brain cells manage protein buildup in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Astrocyte-neuron regulation of autophagy and lysosomal pathways in proteotoxic stress associated with alpha-synucleinopathies
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11162530 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how two types of brain cells, neurons and astrocytes, deal with harmful proteins that can build up in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, hoping to find new ways to help improve brain health and treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $196,875 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG088697-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11162530 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with age-related neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease, or similar conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to protein misfolding or those with acute neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the differences in how neurons and astrocytes, two types of brain cells, handle the accumulation of misfolded proteins associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The study aims to explore the mechanisms of autophagy and lysosomal pathways in these cells to understand their roles in maintaining protein health. By examining how these pathways function differently in neurons and astrocytes, the research seeks to uncover potential therapeutic targets for treating these conditions. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments aimed at improving brain health and function.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating neurodegenerative diseases by enhancing the brain's ability to manage protein buildup.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of cellular pathways in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Maday, Sandra L. — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Maday, Sandra L.
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.