Understanding how tau proteins change in different brain cells related to Alzheimer's disease
Structural characterization of tau aggregation variability and maturity in isolated cell types of the brain
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 ID | NIH-10721681 on NIH RePORTER |
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.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk of developing it.
Not a fit: Patients with non-Alzheimer's related dementias or those without any cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.
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 performed: 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
San Francisco, United States
- 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 below.