Understanding the structure and function of tau protein in Alzheimer's disease

Structure and Function of Tau

['FUNDING_R01'] · WEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV · NIH-10875698

This study is looking at a protein called tau that plays a role in Alzheimer's disease, and it's trying to understand how certain forms of this protein can harm brain cells, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with Alzheimer's.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWEILL MEDICAL COLL OF CORNELL UNIV (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10875698 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the tau protein, which forms neurofibrillary tangles in Alzheimer's disease, contributing to cognitive decline. The project aims to uncover the structure of toxic tau oligomers that may lead to neuronal death, using advanced techniques like solid-state NMR and ESR spectroscopy. By understanding how these oligomers form and their interactions, the research hopes to shed light on the mechanisms of neurodegeneration in Alzheimer's disease. This could ultimately lead to new therapeutic strategies to combat the disease.

Who could benefit from this research

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

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that target tau protein aggregation, potentially slowing or halting the progression of Alzheimer's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding tau pathology, but the specific focus on toxic tau oligomers is a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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, Alzheimer's disease brain

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.