Understanding how proteins are disassembled and recycled in cells
Mechanisms of Protein Disaggregation and Turnover by AAA+ Chaperones
This study is looking at how special proteins help fix or recycle damaged proteins in our cells, especially as we age or face stress, to better understand how problems with this process might lead to diseases like Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to prevent these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11056963 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which certain proteins, known as AAA+ chaperones, help disassemble and recycle damaged or misfolded proteins in cells. By studying these processes, especially in the context of aging and stress, the research aims to uncover how failures in protein management can lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. The team uses advanced imaging techniques, such as cryo-electron microscopy, to visualize the structures and functions of these protein machines in action. This understanding could lead to new therapeutic targets for preventing diseases associated with protein misfolding.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Alzheimer's disease.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to protein misfolding or aggregation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that prevent or slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results in understanding protein disaggregation mechanisms, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Southworth, Daniel Ryland — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Southworth, Daniel Ryland
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.