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2005 Grant - Kuret

Triggers and Enhancers of Tau Filament Formation

Jeffrey Kuret, Ph.D.
Ohio State University Research Foundation
Columbus, Ohio

2005 Investigator-Initiated Research Grant

In a healthy neuron, the tau protein stabilizes structures in the cell that transport nutrients and molecules. In Alzheimer's disease, tau proteins undergo an abnormal chemical alteration that results in a change in its structure and function. These altered tau proteins form threads, or filaments, that become twisted into structures called neurofibrillary tangles.

The molecular events that trigger the formation of tau filaments and tangles remain unclear. Jeffrey Kuret, Ph.D., and colleagues aim to address these unresolved issues by using specialized methods developed in their laboratory to study tau properties and molecular events that result in tangle formation. They will also examine the action of molecules that may target key events and inhibit the formation of tangles. The data from these findings will be used to create a simulation of the process.

The outcome of the work may demonstrate the potential of "fibrillization inhibitors" and suggest strategies for developing disease-modifying treatments.