Developing new treatments for Lewy Body Dementia using synthetic proteins
Official title: Synthetic protein mimetics as potential therapeutics for Lewy Body Dementia
Funded at University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-10925629 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for new treatments for Lewy Body Dementia by creating special compounds that can help stop a harmful protein from building up in the brain, with the hope of slowing down the disease for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $655,638 |
| NIH project number | 1R61NS137824-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925629 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia or those at risk of developing this condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or neurological disorders unrelated to alpha-synuclein aggregation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on creating synthetic protein mimetics to combat Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), a condition affecting millions worldwide. The approach involves synthesizing a diverse library of compounds that can inhibit the aggregation of a protein called alpha-synuclein, which is central to the progression of LBD. By testing these compounds in various models, including cellular and animal models, the research aims to identify effective therapeutics that can cross the blood-brain barrier and reduce the formation of toxic protein aggregates. The ultimate goal is to find a treatment that can slow or halt the progression of LBD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve the quality of life for patients with Lewy Body Dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield significant advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Sunil — University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Sunil
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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.