Understanding how certain proteins protect against Alzheimer's disease
Mutant Tubulins Confer Resistance to Pathological Tau
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · SEATTLE INST FOR BIOMEDICAL/CLINICAL RES · NIH-11124938
This research explores how changes in a protein called tubulin might protect against the harmful tau protein found in Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SEATTLE INST FOR BIOMEDICAL/CLINICAL RES (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SEATTLE, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124938 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Alzheimer's disease and similar conditions, known as tauopathies, are a growing concern with no current treatments that can change the disease's course. This project investigates how a modified protein, tubulin, could reduce the damaging effects of the tau protein, which accumulates in the brains of people with Alzheimer's. We are using tiny worms (C. elegans) to see if altering tubulin levels can improve movement and protect brain cells. We will also study how tubulin and tau interact in test tubes and in mammalian brain cells to understand the underlying mechanisms. This work aims to uncover new ways to protect brain cells from damage in neurodegenerative diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation at this stage, but future clinical trials based on these findings would seek individuals with Alzheimer's disease or related tauopathies.
Not a fit: Patients not affected by tauopathies or neurodegenerative diseases would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new strategies for developing treatments that protect brain cells from the damage caused by tau protein in Alzheimer's disease and other related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: This approach is novel, building on recent discoveries that mutant tubulin can modify tau-related problems in laboratory models.
Where this research is happening
SEATTLE, UNITED STATES
- SEATTLE INST FOR BIOMEDICAL/CLINICAL RES — SEATTLE, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: BENBOW, SARAH JEAN ZIMMERMAN — SEATTLE INST FOR BIOMEDICAL/CLINICAL RES
- Study coordinator: BENBOW, SARAH JEAN ZIMMERMAN
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 disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease