Understanding how tau protein causes neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: SPOP drives neurodegenerative tauopathy
Funded at Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10734807 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called tau affects brain cells in Alzheimer's and similar diseases, using tiny worms to learn more about the problem and find new ways to help people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $1,823,353 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1AG078374-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10734807 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related neurodegenerative disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to tau pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of aggregated tau protein in causing neuron dysfunction and degeneration in Alzheimer's disease and related disorders. Using a transgenic model in C. elegans, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms behind tau-driven neurodegeneration. The researchers have identified specific genes that influence tau toxicity and are exploring how these genes interact with nuclear speckles, which are crucial for RNA processing. By understanding these interactions, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets to mitigate the effects of tau pathology.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau pathology, indicating that this approach has potential for significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
Seattle, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kraemer, Brian C. — Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res
- Study coordinator: Kraemer, Brian C.
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.