Understanding Protein Clumps in Aging Cells Linked to Alzheimer's Disease
Systems biology analysis of RNA-binding protein aggregation during cellular aging
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11112467
This project explores how certain proteins clump together as cells age, which could help us better understand conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11112467 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
RNA-binding proteins are crucial for many cell functions, but they can form harmful clumps, especially as we get older. These protein clumps are connected to age-related conditions, including neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's. Our project uses a simple model, baker's yeast, to carefully watch how these protein clumps form and change during the aging process. By combining advanced imaging with single-cell techniques, we aim to understand how these clumps affect cell health, gene activity, and lifespan. This foundational knowledge could point to new ways to address age-related diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research does not involve direct patient participation but aims to benefit individuals affected by or at risk for age-related neurodegenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer's.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate treatment options or direct clinical intervention would not find direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could reveal fundamental mechanisms of protein aggregation in aging, potentially identifying new targets for therapies for neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific systematic analysis using microfluidics and single-cell imaging in yeast for RBP aggregation is novel, the general concept of protein aggregation's role in neurodegeneration is well-established in other research.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HAO, NAN — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: HAO, NAN
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease