Understanding how tau proteins spread in the brain during Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Mechanisms of trans-synaptic pathological tau spreading in the human brain
Funded at University of Texas Med Br Galveston · NIH-10827049 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain proteins in the brain, called tau proteins, spread and affect brain cells in people with Alzheimer's, with the hope of finding new ways to slow down memory loss.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $48,603 |
| NIH project number | 1F30AG085974-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10827049 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those exhibiting early signs of cognitive impairment related to tau pathology.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia that do not involve tau pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which tau proteins spread across synapses in the brain, which is crucial for understanding Alzheimer's disease. The study focuses on how toxic forms of tau, known as tau oligomers, interact with brain cells and how the presence of amyloid-beta may influence this process. By examining these interactions, the research aims to identify potential targets for new treatments that could slow or halt the progression of cognitive decline in Alzheimer's patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that effectively target tau pathology, potentially improving cognitive function in Alzheimer's patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau pathology, but this specific approach to studying tau spreading in relation to amyloid-beta is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Texas Med Br Galveston
Galveston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kadamangudi, Shrinath — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Kadamangudi, Shrinath
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.