Different misfolded forms of alpha-synuclein in Parkinson’s and related disorders
Differentiation and characterization of conformational alpha-synuclein strains associated with Parkinson's disease and related synucleinopathies
This project aims to detect and tell apart different misfolded forms of alpha-synuclein in people with Parkinson’s disease and related conditions using a very sensitive spinal-fluid test.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10862705 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This project uses a lab technique called PMCA (also known as RT-QuIC) to amplify tiny amounts of misfolded alpha-synuclein found in cerebrospinal fluid so they can be detected and studied. Researchers will compare the amplified protein shapes from people with Parkinson’s disease, multiple system atrophy, and dementia with Lewy bodies to identify patterns linked to each condition. They will characterize how those different protein "strains" behave, including testing them in lab models to better understand differences in symptoms and progression. The goal is to develop a reliable marker that could help doctors diagnose these diseases earlier and distinguish between them when symptoms overlap.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with suspected or early-stage Parkinson’s disease, multiple system atrophy, or dementia with Lewy bodies who are willing to provide cerebrospinal fluid (via lumbar puncture) or other biospecimens.
Not a fit: People without synuclein-related disorders or those unwilling or unable to provide spinal-fluid samples are unlikely to benefit directly from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could enable earlier and more accurate diagnosis and help match patients to the most appropriate care or future clinical trials.
How similar studies have performed: Early PMCA/RT-QuIC studies have successfully detected alpha-synuclein in patient spinal fluid and shown promise for distinguishing some synucleinopathies, but the approach is still being refined for routine clinical use.
Where this research is happening
Houston, United States
- University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston — Houston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Shahnawaz, Mohammad — University of Texas Hlth Sci Ctr Houston
- Study coordinator: Shahnawaz, Mohammad
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 below.