Exploring brain inflammation in Parkinson's disease using advanced imaging techniques
Official title: Investigate neuroinflammation in the brain of PD using S1P1 radioligands
Funded at Washington University · NIH-11039951 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how inflammation in the brain affects people with Parkinson's disease by using a special imaging technique, and it aims to help us learn more about the disease and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Washington University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Saint Louis, United States) |
| Project start | February 20, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $556,253 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS134586-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11039951 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who are willing to undergo PET imaging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or those who are unable to undergo PET imaging may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding neuroinflammation in patients with Parkinson's disease (PD) by utilizing a specialized imaging technique called positron emission tomography (PET). The study employs a specific radiotracer, [11C]CS1P1, which targets a receptor involved in inflammation within the brain. By measuring neuroinflammation quantitatively, the research aims to provide insights into the disease's progression and identify potential therapeutic targets. Patients may undergo PET scans to assess the levels of inflammation in their brains, contributing to a better understanding of PD.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for patients with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in using similar imaging techniques to detect neuroinflammation in other neurological conditions, suggesting a promising approach for Parkinson's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Washington University
Saint Louis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tu, Zhude — Washington University
- Study coordinator: Tu, Zhude
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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.