Understanding how tau proteins behave in the brain
Project 2: Tau metabolism: Quantifying tau half-life and secretion
This study is looking at how tau proteins behave in brain cells from people with certain genetic changes linked to neurodegenerative diseases, like frontotemporal lobar degeneration and progressive supranuclear palsy, to better understand their role in these conditions and find new ways to help.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10891480 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the metabolism of tau proteins, which are linked to neurodegenerative diseases like frontotemporal lobar degeneration and progressive supranuclear palsy. By studying neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells with specific genetic mutations, the researchers aim to quantify how long tau proteins last and how they are secreted. The approach involves examining the effects of these mutations on tau turnover and the cellular mechanisms that may lead to tau-related toxicity. This could help clarify the role of tau in brain diseases and identify potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with familial or sporadic tauopathies, particularly those with MAPT gene mutations or risk haplotypes.
Not a fit: Patients without tauopathies or those whose conditions are unrelated to tau metabolism may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new insights into tau-related diseases and pave the way for targeted treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau metabolism and its implications in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Karch, Celeste Marie — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Karch, Celeste Marie
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 below.