Understanding the role of a specific protein in Alzheimer's disease

Deteriming the Role of Caspase Cleaved Tau in Alzheimer’s Disease

NIH-funded research University of California, San Francisco · NIH-10868742

This study is looking at a protein called tau that changes in Alzheimer's disease to see if a specific type of it is harmful or just a reaction to the illness, with the hope that understanding this could help find better ways to treat or manage Alzheimer's for patients.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Francisco NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10868742 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how a protein called tau, which is altered in Alzheimer's disease, may contribute to the progression of the condition. The study focuses on a specific form of tau that is cleaved by enzymes known as caspases, exploring whether this process is harmful or a response to the disease. By examining the effects of inhibiting these enzymes in laboratory models, the research aims to clarify their role in Alzheimer's pathology and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may benefit from insights gained about how to better manage or treat Alzheimer's disease based on these findings.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or those at risk for developing it.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that target tau pathology in Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting tau pathology, suggesting that this approach may lead to significant advancements in Alzheimer's treatment.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.