Beta-amyloid build-up in the brain for Parkinson's disease

Build-up of beta-amyloid in the brain in Parkinson's disease

NIH-funded research Universidad Central Del Caribe · NIH-11128713

This research explores how a protein called amyloid beta, often linked to Alzheimer's, builds up in the brains of people with Parkinson's disease, especially when dementia develops.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversidad Central Del Caribe NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Bayamon, United States)
Project IDNIH-11128713 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

We know that a protein called amyloid beta, or Aβ, is a key feature of Alzheimer's disease, but it also appears in people with Parkinson's disease, particularly as Parkinson's-related dementia progresses. About half of those with advanced Parkinson's dementia show brain changes similar to Alzheimer's, including Aβ plaques and tau tangles. Our team is looking into whether ongoing inflammation in the brain causes blood platelets to become overactive, releasing Aβ that then travels from the blood into brain tissue and causes damage. We are investigating if reducing platelet activity or the amount of Aβ carried in the blood can prevent this build-up.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is for patients with Parkinson's disease, especially those who may be experiencing or are at risk for developing dementia.

Not a fit: Patients without Parkinson's disease or those not experiencing cognitive decline related to the condition may not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: Understanding how amyloid beta accumulates could lead to new ways to prevent or slow the progression of dementia in people with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the link between Aβ and Alzheimer's is well-established, this specific hypothesis about platelet-derived Aβ in Parkinson's disease is a novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Bayamon, 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.