Understanding how misfolded tau proteins affect brain function in dementia

Tau Conformation in Tauopathies and Neuronal Function

NIH-funded research University of Illinois at Chicago · NIH-11136073

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 typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Illinois at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, UNITED STATES)
Project IDNIH-11136073 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or other tauopathies such as Progressive Supranuclear Palsy or Frontotemporal Dementias.

Not a fit: 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.

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 performed: 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

Chicago, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.