Understanding protein aggregation in Alzheimer's disease using advanced spectroscopy techniques
Official title: Algorithms and Software for Multidimensional Vibrational Spectroscopy of Coarse-Grained Protein Models
Funded at University of Delaware · NIH-11083554 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working on new technology to better understand how certain proteins clump together in Alzheimer's disease, which could help us find better ways to diagnose and treat this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Delaware NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Newark, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | May 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $200,000 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG085412-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11083554 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, particularly older adults.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-age-related neurodegenerative conditions or those not affected by Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing algorithms and software for multidimensional vibrational spectroscopy to study the aggregation of proteins associated with Alzheimer's disease. By utilizing two-dimensional infrared spectroscopy, the project aims to gain insights into the mechanisms of amyloid protein aggregation, which is crucial for understanding neurotoxicity in Alzheimer's. The approach involves analyzing protein dynamics with high spatial and temporal resolution, allowing for a better understanding of the structures and populations of toxic intermediates. This could lead to improved diagnostic and therapeutic strategies for age-related neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide critical insights that lead to new treatments or diagnostic tools for Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar spectroscopic techniques has shown promise in understanding protein dynamics and aggregation, suggesting a potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Delaware
Newark, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kananenka, Alexei — University of Delaware
- Study coordinator: Kananenka, Alexei
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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.