Understanding how tau protein affects brain cells in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Cell type vulnerability to pathogenic tau accumulation in hippocampal CA1
Funded at Virginia Commonwealth University · NIH-10985635 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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 type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virginia Commonwealth University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Richmond, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $408,638 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG085555-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985635 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to tau pathology may not receive benefit from this research.
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.
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 gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau pathology, indicating that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Virginia Commonwealth University
Richmond, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mcquiston, Adam Rory — Virginia Commonwealth University
- Study coordinator: Mcquiston, Adam Rory
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.