Understanding how prion proteins clump in the brain
Mechanisms of Prion Aggregation
This research explores how certain proteins called prions clump together in the brain, which is important for understanding diseases like Alzheimer's and other rapidly progressing brain conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11093960 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Prion diseases are severe brain conditions that worsen quickly, causing memory loss and other neurological problems. This research aims to understand the specific ways that prion proteins, and other natural substances in the body, cause these harmful clumps to form and spread in the brain. We are looking at how a molecule called heparan sulfate (HS) might encourage these clumps and slow down the brain's natural ability to clear them away. By using advanced laboratory and animal models, we hope to uncover the exact steps involved in this clumping process. This knowledge could help us find new ways to stop or slow these devastating diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not directly involve patient participation but aims to benefit individuals affected by prion diseases or Alzheimer's-like conditions in the future.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from participating in this basic science research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to prevent or treat rapidly progressing neurodegenerative diseases, including those with features similar to Alzheimer's, by targeting how harmful proteins clump in the brain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous work by this team has shown that specific modifications to prion proteins and their interaction with heparan sulfate play a crucial role in disease progression, suggesting a promising direction for this continued research.
Where this research is happening
La Jolla, United States
- University of California, San Diego — La Jolla, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sigurdson, Christina — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Sigurdson, Christina
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.