Creating a 3D model to study Parkinson's disease
Official title: High-throughput neurovascular-unit-on-a-chip with OASIS for modeling Parkinson's disease
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11043419 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is creating a tiny model of the brain to help us learn more about Parkinson's disease and find better treatments by looking at how brain cells and blood vessels work together.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2024 |
| Project end | March 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $581,422 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS133965-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11043419 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, particularly those experiencing motor and cognitive symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Parkinson's disease who are in advanced stages or have significant comorbidities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a high-throughput neurovascular unit-on-a-chip that mimics the human brain environment to better understand Parkinson's disease. By using advanced technology, the researchers aim to replicate the interactions between neurons and blood vessels, which are crucial for studying the disease's progression and testing new treatments. The approach involves using human-derived cells to create a realistic model that can help identify how the disease affects brain function and how therapies can be evaluated more effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for Parkinson's disease by providing a better understanding of its mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar 3D models to study neurodegenerative diseases, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kim, Deok-Ho — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Kim, Deok-Ho
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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.