Understanding how protein quality control affects aging and related diseases

Protein quality control in age-related diseases

NIH-funded research Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-11055732

This study is looking at how a special enzyme called CHIP helps keep proteins in our cells healthy as we age, which could lead to better understanding and treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's disease and other age-related issues.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniv of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chapel Hill, United States)
Project IDNIH-11055732 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of protein quality control in age-related diseases, particularly focusing on how proteins fold and are degraded within cells. The study examines a specific enzyme, CHIP, which is crucial for maintaining protein integrity and is linked to various degenerative conditions, including Alzheimer's disease. By exploring how CHIP influences key cellular processes, the research aims to uncover mechanisms that could lead to better understanding and potential treatments for age-related cognitive decline and other disorders. Patients may benefit from insights into how protein management can impact their health as they age.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults aged 21 and older who are experiencing symptoms of age-related cognitive decline or have a family history of Alzheimer's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who are younger than 21 or do not have any age-related cognitive issues may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating age-related diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein quality control mechanisms in other degenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Chapel Hill, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.