Understanding how misfolded tau proteins affect brain function in dementia
Official title: Tau Conformation in Tauopathies and Neuronal Function
Funded at University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11136073 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain messed-up tau proteins affect brain health in conditions like Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients feel better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | June 1, 2025 |
| Project end | May 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $1,592,854 |
| NIH project number | 2RF1NS082730-11A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11136073 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other tauopathies such as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy or Frontotemporal Dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tauopathies not related to hyperphosphorylated tau or those with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of misfolded and hyperphosphorylated tau proteins in various tauopathies, including Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. By examining how these pathological forms of tau disrupt normal tau functions, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind tau toxicity and its impact on neuronal health. The research focuses on specific molecular pathways that are altered in disease states, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how tau proteins contribute to their conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target tau-related mechanisms in dementia, potentially improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau pathology, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights into tau-related diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Illinois at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brady, Scott Thomas — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Brady, Scott Thomas
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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.