Understanding how brain cells respond to mechanical forces in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Investigating mechanisms of neuronal nuclear mechanotransduction in physiological conditions and tauopathy
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Science Center · NIH-10901610 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells sense and react to physical forces, especially in people with Alzheimer's disease, to understand how changes in these cells might lead to memory loss and other symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Science Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Antonio, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $38,674 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS137774-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10901610 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those exhibiting early signs of cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tauopathies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurons, the primary cells in the brain, detect and respond to mechanical forces, particularly in the context of Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on the role of the nucleus in this process, exploring how changes in mechanical tension can affect cell behavior and contribute to neurodegeneration. By studying the effects of tau protein accumulation on neuronal function, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that lead to cell death and cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating Alzheimer's disease by targeting the mechanical properties of neurons.
How similar studies have gone: While research on mechanotransduction in non-neuronal cells has shown promise, the specific application to neurons and tauopathies is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Science Center
San Antonio, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sohn, Claira Rose — University of Texas Hlth Science Center
- Study coordinator: Sohn, Claira Rose
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.