Understanding how cells clear harmful proteins in diseases like Alzheimer's
Autophagic Clearance of Proteasomes and CDC48 as Models for Amyloidogenic Protein Quality Control.
This research explores how our cells naturally clean up damaged proteins, which could help us understand and treat conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11091612 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Our bodies have natural cleanup systems that remove old or damaged proteins to keep cells healthy. When these systems don't work well, harmful proteins can build up and cause diseases like Alzheimer's, Parkinson's, and ALS. This project looks at how cells get rid of specific protein complexes, called proteasomes and CDC48, using a process called autophagy. By studying these processes in simple organisms like yeast and plants, we hope to uncover the basic steps involved in clearing problematic proteins. This knowledge could lead to new ways to prevent or treat diseases caused by protein buildup.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to benefit individuals with neurodegenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease by uncovering fundamental disease mechanisms.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for therapies that enhance the cell's natural ability to clear harmful proteins, potentially slowing or preventing the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific mechanisms of proteasome and CDC48 clearance are being detailed, the broader concept of cellular protein quality control is a well-established area of research with many ongoing efforts.
Where this research is happening
Saint Louis, United States
- Washington University — Saint Louis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Jez, Joseph Martin — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Jez, Joseph Martin
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.