Understanding how tau protein affects brain function in aging and neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Tau-mediated synaptic dysfunction in age-related neurodegenerative diseases
Funded at University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11032725 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called tau affects brain connections as we age, especially in people with Alzheimer's, to help find ways to prevent memory loss and other problems related to aging.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project start | September 7, 2023 |
| Project end | September 6, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $40,708 |
| NIH project number | 5F99AG083305-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11032725 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive decline or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related tauopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive impairments not related to tau pathology or those with early-stage neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of tau protein in causing synaptic dysfunction in the aging brain, particularly in conditions like Alzheimer's disease. It aims to uncover the cellular mechanisms by which abnormal tau accumulation leads to cognitive decline and synapse loss. The study employs advanced techniques in biochemistry, microscopy, and electrophysiology to explore these mechanisms. By understanding these processes, the research seeks to pave the way for developing preventative therapies for age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that help preserve cognitive function in patients with age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau's role in neurodegeneration, indicating that this approach has potential for significant breakthroughs.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Alabama at Birmingham
Birmingham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weber, Audrey — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Weber, Audrey
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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.