Understanding how misfolded proteins contribute to Alzheimer's and related dementias
Official title: Production and Distribution of well-characterized polymorphic variants of alpha-synuclein aggregates
Funded at University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston · NIH-11099685 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a specific protein linked to Alzheimer's and similar types of dementia to help create better tests and treatments for people living with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2022 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $770,698 |
| NIH project number | 5U24AG079685-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11099685 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Lewy body dementia, or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-degenerative forms of dementia or those without any form of dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the role of alpha-synuclein aggregates in Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. It aims to develop and distribute well-characterized variants of these protein aggregates to better understand their contribution to disease pathology. By utilizing a sensitive assay to amplify these aggregates from patient samples, the research seeks to identify different conformational strains associated with various forms of dementia. This could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for patients affected by these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance our understanding of Alzheimer's disease and lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding protein aggregates in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Soto, Claudio — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Soto, Claudio
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.