Understanding how tau protein contributes to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Protection from pathological tau by activation of the ER unfolded protein response
Funded at Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res · NIH-10773004 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a harmful protein called tau affects brain cells in Alzheimer's disease and is testing ways to help protect those cells by activating a natural response in the body, which could lead to new treatments for people with Alzheimer's and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Seattle Inst for Biomedical/clinical Res NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2020 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $567,765 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG066211-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-10773004 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 dementias who may benefit from novel therapeutic approaches targeting tau pathology.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-Alzheimer's forms of dementia or those without tau pathology may not receive benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of abnormal tau protein accumulation in neurons, which is a key feature of Alzheimer's disease and related dementias. Using a model organism, C. elegans, the study explores how the activation of the unfolded protein response (UPR) can protect neurons from the toxic effects of tau. The researchers aim to identify specific genes that can help modulate the accumulation and clearance of pathological tau, potentially leading to new therapeutic strategies. By understanding these mechanisms, the research seeks to uncover ways to prevent or mitigate neurodegeneration associated with Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect neurons from damage caused by tau protein, potentially improving outcomes for patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting the unfolded protein response in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield beneficial results.
Where this research is happening
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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.