Understanding how brain proteins contribute to Alzheimer's disease progression
Network and cellular vulnerability to pathological protein progression
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the brain, like tau and alpha-synuclein, affect the progression of Alzheimer's and similar conditions, with the hope of finding new ways to treat these diseases by understanding how these proteins work together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Van Andel Research Institute NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Grand Rapids, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11084407 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of aggregated proteins in the brain, such as tau and alpha-synuclein, in the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By studying the cellular and network vulnerabilities associated with these proteins, the research aims to uncover how they interact and influence disease progression. The approach involves mapping the progression of these pathologies in mice with varying conditions to better understand the underlying mechanisms. This knowledge could lead to the development of new treatments that target these vulnerabilities.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those exhibiting symptoms related to tau and alpha-synuclein pathologies.
Not a fit: Patients with forms of dementia not associated with tau or alpha-synuclein pathologies may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel treatments that slow or halt the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Grand Rapids, United States
- Van Andel Research Institute — Grand Rapids, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Henderson, Michael — Van Andel Research Institute
- Study coordinator: Henderson, Michael
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.