Understanding how heparan sulfate affects brain cell vulnerability to prions
Role of heparan sulfate in neural cell vulnerability to prions
This study is looking at how certain molecules in the brain, called heparan sulfate proteoglycans, affect the way brain cells respond to diseases like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to help protect those cells and improve treatment options.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10891672 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of heparan sulfate proteoglycans (HSPGs) in the brain's response to prion diseases, particularly focusing on how these molecules interact with misfolded proteins like amyloid-beta. By studying the differences in HSPG composition and their effects on neural cells, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that contribute to selective cell vulnerability in neurodegenerative diseases. The approach includes using mouse models to observe how variations in HSPG structure influence disease progression and cell survival. This could lead to insights into potential therapeutic targets for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other prion-related neurodegenerative conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to prion mechanisms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer's by targeting the mechanisms of cell vulnerability.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific role of heparan sulfate in prion diseases is still being explored, similar approaches have shown promise in understanding neurodegenerative mechanisms in other contexts.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aguilar Calvo, Patricia — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Aguilar Calvo, Patricia
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.