Understanding how tau proteins change in different brain cells related to Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Structural characterization of tau aggregation variability and maturity in isolated cell types of the brain
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10721681 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how tau proteins change in the brain and how these changes relate to Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding new ways to treat the condition and help patients.
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 start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,416,521 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS133651-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10721681 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 at risk of developing it.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-Alzheimer's related dementias or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the structural variations of tau proteins, which are known to play a critical role in Alzheimer's disease. By using advanced imaging techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the study aims to identify how these proteins aggregate in different types of brain cells and at various stages of the disease. The goal is to uncover specific tau conformations that could serve as targets for new drug development, potentially leading to more effective treatments for Alzheimer's. Patients may benefit from insights gained into the early stages of the disease and the development of targeted therapies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of more effective treatments for Alzheimer's disease by targeting specific tau protein conformations.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in targeting tau proteins for Alzheimer's treatment, but this approach focuses on previously uncharacterized tau conformations, making it a novel investigation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Southworth, Daniel Ryland — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Southworth, Daniel Ryland
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.