Using CRISPR to target tau proteins in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: CRISPR gene therapies targeting tau in Alzheimer's disease and tauopathies
Funded at Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill · NIH-10752745 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to use CRISPR technology to lower harmful tau proteins in brain cells, which are linked to Alzheimer's and similar diseases, with the hope of improving thinking and memory for people affected by these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chapel Hill, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $424,095 |
| NIH project number | 1R21AG084187-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10752745 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related tauopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-tau related forms of dementia or cognitive decline may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of CRISPR technology to specifically target and reduce tau proteins in neurons, which are implicated in Alzheimer's disease and related tauopathies. By employing a novel approach that focuses on RNA transcripts rather than DNA, the study aims to minimize potential side effects associated with traditional gene editing methods. The researchers will utilize computational predictions to identify effective guide RNAs that can selectively deplete tau variants found in different tauopathies. This innovative strategy could lead to significant cognitive improvements for patients suffering from these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options that significantly improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of CRISPR technology in this specific context is relatively novel, preliminary findings suggest promising results in targeting tau proteins in human cell lines.
Where this research is happening
-
Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cohen, Todd Jonathan — Univ of North Carolina Chapel Hill
- Study coordinator: Cohen, Todd Jonathan
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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.