Understanding how lipid curvature affects cholesterol and amyloid beta distribution in cell membranes
Official title: Intrinsic curvature induced packing heterogeneity and non-uniform distribution of cholesterol and Abeta peptide in lipid bilayers
Funded at California State University Northridge · NIH-10867414 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the shape of certain fats in cell membranes affects the way cholesterol and proteins related to Alzheimer's disease are organized, using a special light technique to help understand these changes better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University Northridge NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Northridge, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2022 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $108,750 |
| NIH project number | 5SC3GM144158-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10867414 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with concerns about amyloid beta accumulation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to amyloid beta pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the intrinsic curvature of lipids influences the arrangement and distribution of cholesterol and amyloid beta peptides within cell membranes. By using a novel fluorescence method, the study aims to observe how different lipid curvatures interact and affect membrane packing. The researchers will analyze the behavior of a specific fluorophore, Laurdan, to track changes in membrane structure and composition, which could provide insights into the mechanisms underlying neurotoxicity associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a better understanding of Alzheimer's disease mechanisms and potentially inform new therapeutic strategies.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding lipid interactions and their implications for neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University Northridge
Northridge, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ranganathan, Radha — California State University Northridge
- Study coordinator: Ranganathan, Radha
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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.