Exploring how different forms of α-synuclein fibrils affect brain diseases
Official title: Investigating the interplay between polymorphic α-syn fibril conformation and cell-dependent pathology
Funded at Drexel University · NIH-10951926 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how different types of a protein called α-synuclein might affect brain cells in conditions like Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's disease, and multiple system atrophy, using special technology to mimic a real brain environment, so we can better understand how these diseases progress.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Drexel University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $414,191 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS139178-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10951926 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's disease, or multiple system atrophy.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases not related to synucleinopathies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between various forms of α-synuclein fibrils and their role in diseases like Lewy body dementia, Parkinson's disease, and multiple system atrophy. By using advanced techniques such as human organ-on-a-chip technology, the study aims to understand how these fibrils interact with different cell types in the brain. The research will produce and analyze different α-synuclein fibril structures to see how they contribute to disease progression in a realistic brain environment. This approach could help clarify the mechanisms behind these neurodegenerative diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and targeted therapies for patients with synucleinopathies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding amyloid fibrils in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Drexel University
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Myungwoon — Drexel University
- Study coordinator: Lee, Myungwoon
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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.