Understanding how tau protein affects brain cells in Alzheimer's disease

Cell type vulnerability to pathogenic tau accumulation in hippocampal CA1

NIH-funded research Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10985635

This study is looking at how a protein called tau spreads in the brain and affects memory in people with Alzheimer's, hoping to find new ways to help treat the disease.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionVirginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Richmond, United States)
Project IDNIH-10985635 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of tau protein in the progression of Alzheimer's disease, focusing on how it spreads between brain regions critical for memory. By examining the trans-synaptic spread of pathogenic tau from the entorhinal cortex to the hippocampus, the study aims to uncover the mechanisms behind neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer's. The approach includes analyzing the cellular responses to tau accumulation and its impact on neuronal health, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the disease process and potential future treatments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau pathology may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic approaches that slow or prevent the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau pathology, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Richmond, 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 syndromeAlzheimer's DiseaseAlzheimer's disease modelAlzheimer's disease patient
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.