Understanding how tau proteins cause neurodegenerative diseases.
Official title: Pathogenesis of Tauopathies
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11060928 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tau proteins behave in diseases like Alzheimer's, hoping to find ways to stop the harmful spread of these proteins so that we can develop better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | February 29, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $739,247 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG076434-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11060928 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with tauopathies, particularly those with Alzheimer's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with tauopathies not related to Alzheimer's disease or those with other unrelated neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of tau proteins in various neurodegenerative diseases known as tauopathies. It aims to understand how different forms of tau can induce the aggregation of normal tau proteins, leading to disease progression. By exploring the interaction between tau and amyloid beta plaques, the study seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets that could inhibit the harmful transmission of tau aggregates. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to more effective treatments for conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to targeted therapies that slow or halt the progression of tauopathies, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding tau pathology, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treatment.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Virginia M — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Lee, Virginia M
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.