Understanding how cells maintain protein health to prevent diseases like Alzheimer's
Official title: Chaperone-mediated mechanisms of cellular proteostasis
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11017798 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study looks at how our cells keep proteins healthy and avoid problems that can lead to diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and it aims to find new ways to help treat these conditions by understanding how certain helpers in our cells work together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $348,238 |
| NIH project number | 5R35GM149196-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11017798 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's or Parkinson's.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions unrelated to protein misfolding or aggregation may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which cells maintain proper protein folding and prevent misfolding, which is linked to diseases such as Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. The study focuses on the role of molecular chaperones and the ubiquitin-proteasome system in managing protein quality and cellular stress. By exploring how these systems interact with redox pathways, the research aims to uncover new insights into cellular health and disease prevention. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of how to target these processes in treating neurodegenerative disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein misfolding and its implications for neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Morano, Kevin Anthony — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Morano, Kevin Anthony
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.