Understanding the complexities of frontotemporal degeneration and aging

From cells to complex syndromes: using networks to understand heterogeneity in TDP-related frontotemporal degeneration and aging

['FUNDING_P01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-10889924

This study is looking at how a protein called TDP-43 affects frontotemporal degeneration (FTD), a type of dementia that can happen in younger people, to help us better understand the disease and find new ways to treat it, and we invite patients to join by sharing their experiences and health information.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_P01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10889924 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates frontotemporal degeneration (FTD), a common form of dementia in individuals under 65, particularly focusing on the role of TDP-43 protein in the disease's progression. The study aims to bridge the gap between cellular models and human clinical manifestations by examining the molecular consequences of TDP-43 accumulation. By analyzing both familial and sporadic cases, the research seeks to enhance our understanding of the disease and inform future treatment strategies. Patients may contribute to this research through clinical assessments and biomarker evaluations.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for participation include individuals diagnosed with frontotemporal degeneration or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, particularly those with familial histories of these conditions.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to TDP-43 pathology may not receive benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic and treatment options for patients suffering from frontotemporal degeneration and related disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been progress in understanding TDP-43 in experimental models, this research aims to explore uncharted territories in human disease, making it a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis Motor Neuron Disease, Gehrig's Disease

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.