Understanding How Cell Energy Factories Work in Alzheimer's Disease

IMPACTING MITOCHONDRIAL FUNCTION THROUGH ALTERED PROTEASE ACTIVITY

['FUNDING_R01'] · SCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE · NIH-11078210

This work explores how tiny parts inside our cells, called mitochondria, function differently in diseases like Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorSCRIPPS RESEARCH INSTITUTE, THE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11078210 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

Our cells have tiny powerhouses called mitochondria, and when they don't work right, it's a common problem in many brain diseases, including Alzheimer's. This project looks closely at specific proteins within these mitochondria that act like tiny scissors, called proteases, which help keep them healthy. We want to understand exactly how these proteases control mitochondrial health and how their imbalance contributes to disease. By studying their detailed structures, we hope to uncover the basic mechanisms behind these processes, which could lead to new ways to protect mitochondria.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational work is not directly recruiting patients but aims to understand the underlying causes of neurodegenerative diseases, including Alzheimer's.

Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options would not directly benefit from this basic science investigation.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to protect mitochondria and potentially develop new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.

How similar studies have performed: This project builds on previous work that successfully determined the structures of key mitochondrial proteases, providing a strong foundation for further mechanistic understanding.

Where this research is happening

LA JOLLA, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.