Understanding how lysosomal dysfunctions affect Frontotemporal Dementia
Development of Mass Spectrometry Strategies to Decipher Dynamic Lysosomal Dysfunctions in Frontotemporal Dementia
This study is looking at a protein called progranulin to see how its absence affects brain cells in people with Frontotemporal Dementia, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of Maryland, College Park NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (College Park, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11249844 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of progranulin, a protein linked to lysosomal function, in Frontotemporal Dementia (FTD). By using advanced mass spectrometry techniques, the study aims to analyze how the absence of progranulin affects lysosomal activities in neurons derived from human stem cells. The researchers will develop methods to observe and quantify the interactions and functions of lysosomes in these neurons, ultimately seeking to identify potential therapeutic targets for FTD. This work could lead to a better understanding of the disease mechanisms and pave the way for new treatment strategies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Frontotemporal Dementia, particularly those with mutations in the GRN gene.
Not a fit: Patients with Frontotemporal Dementia who do not have GRN mutations or other related lysosomal dysfunctions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic targets and strategies for treating Frontotemporal Dementia.
How similar studies have performed: While lysosomal dysfunctions have been studied in various neurodegenerative diseases, this specific approach using mass spectrometry in FTD is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
College Park, United States
- Univ of Maryland, College Park — College Park, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hao, Ling — Univ of Maryland, College Park
- Study coordinator: Hao, Ling
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.