Understanding how TBK1 affects neuron health in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Defining TBK1-associated autophagy networks in neurons
Funded at University of California, San Francisco · NIH-11167738 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called TBK1 affects the health of brain cells in people with frontotemporal dementia and ALS, to help us understand how to keep these cells functioning better and find new ways to treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| 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 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $768,349 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG089849-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11167738 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal dementia or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, particularly those with genetic variants affecting TBK1.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases unrelated to TBK1 or those without a diagnosis of FTD or ALS may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the TBK1 protein in the health of neurons, particularly in conditions like frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). The study aims to explore how TBK1 influences autophagy, a process that helps maintain neuron function by clearing damaged proteins and organelles. By examining the effects of TBK1 loss-of-function, the researchers will use advanced techniques to analyze protein interactions and signaling pathways in neurons. This could lead to a better understanding of the mechanisms behind neurodegeneration and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that modify the progression of neurodegenerative diseases like FTD and ALS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of autophagy in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Francisco
San Francisco, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mordes, Daniel Adam — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Mordes, Daniel Adam
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.