Understanding how harmful proteins spread in Alzheimer's and related dementias
Exploring the differential spreading of distinct pathological conformers of AD/LBD-related proteins by combining mathematical modeling and functional study
This work aims to discover how different types of harmful proteins spread through the brain in conditions like Alzheimer's disease and Lewy body dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11177709 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
In diseases like Alzheimer's and Lewy body dementia, specific harmful proteins build up and spread in the brain, which is thought to drive the disease forward. We want to understand why certain brain regions are more vulnerable to this spread and how different forms of these proteins affect progression. By combining advanced computer models with information from mouse models, we hope to identify key genes that influence how these proteins move. This knowledge is crucial for finding new ways to stop the disease from getting worse.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients living with Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, and other related dementias.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention will not receive direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal new targets for developing drugs that slow or stop the progression of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of pathological proteins is well-documented, this project uses a novel combination of mathematical modeling and functional studies to understand how different protein forms influence disease progression.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Raj, Ashish — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Raj, Ashish
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.