Understanding how certain proteins contribute to Alzheimer's disease and related dementias
Intrinsically disordered domains of α-synuclein: effect of fibril formation and fibril polymorphs
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · NIH-11061861
This study is looking at a part of a protein called α-synuclein that can change shape and might help form harmful clumps in diseases like Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementia, with the hope of finding new ways to understand and treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11061861 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of intrinsically disordered regions of the α-synuclein protein in the formation of fibrils associated with neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementia. By using advanced techniques such as solid-state NMR and cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to uncover how these disordered regions interact with other cellular components and contribute to the toxicity of fibrils. The goal is to create a detailed molecular model that includes these regions, which could lead to better understanding and treatment of these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, or other related neurodegenerative disorders.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to α-synuclein, or those without a confirmed diagnosis of Alzheimer's or related dementias, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights and potential therapies for patients suffering from Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding amyloid fibrils and their role in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA — Los Angeles, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SIEMER, ANSGAR B — UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA
- Study coordinator: SIEMER, ANSGAR B
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer's disease and related dementia, Alzheimer's disease and related disorders, Alzheimer's disease or a related dementia