Unraveling TBCK Protein Biochemistry to Understand TBCK Encephaloneuronopathy
Official title: Decoding the Protein Biochemistry of TBCK
Funded at Florida State University · NIH-11454600 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project looks at how the TBCK protein works in human cells to better understand a rare pediatric brain disorder and point toward future treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Florida State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tallahassee, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $147,998 |
| NIH project number | 1R03NS147056-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11454600 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
People with TBCKE or other TBCK-related neurodevelopmental disorders could potentially benefit from advances stemming from this work.
✕Less likely to help
Direct clinical benefit may not be available during this early stage, as the study focuses on basic protein biology.
What this research studies
TBCK encephaloneuronopathy is a rare neurodevelopmental condition with no current treatments. The team will study the TBCK protein in human cells, focusing on whether TBCK acts as a GTPase-activating protein by interacting with Rab5A, using in vitro enzyme assays. They will also use fluorescence-based tests and hydrogen-deuterium exchange mass spectrometry to map how TBCK interacts with other proteins and how disease-associated changes might alter its function. The goal is to clarify TBCK’s catalytic activity and structure to identify potential drug targets for future therapy. This pilot work aims to lay the groundwork for translating these insights into targeted interventions for TBCKE patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the research could reveal drug targets and mechanisms that pave the way for future treatments for TBCKE.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work on related protein kinases has clarified mechanisms and guided drug development, suggesting this approach could be fruitful for TBCK as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Florida State University
Tallahassee, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zhu, Wen — Florida State University
- Study coordinator: Zhu, Wen
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.