Understanding how tau protein changes contribute to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Functional Characterization of Tau Mutation and Post-translational Modifications
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11293726 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking into how changes in a protein called tau contribute to Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the condition and help those affected by it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $244,021 |
| NIH project number | 4R00AG080116-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11293726 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 with genetic mutations associated with tauopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-tau related neurodegenerative diseases may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind tau protein aggregation in the brain, which is a key feature of Alzheimer's disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. By examining how tau mutations and post-translational modifications affect protein behavior, the study aims to uncover the specific cellular environments that lead to tau aggregation. The approach includes analyzing tau's interactions and modifications to identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new treatments for Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau protein behavior, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Samelson, Avi Jacob — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Samelson, Avi Jacob
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.