Exploring how gut bacteria might influence immunotherapy effectiveness for Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's disease
Official title: Immunotherapy for Synucleinopathies: Can Gut Microbiota Affect Efficacy?
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10666872 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the bacteria in our gut might influence how well immunotherapy works for people with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's disease, hoping to find new ways to help improve treatment for those living with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | June 15, 2023 |
| Project end | May 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $419,375 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS126889-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10666872 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia or Parkinson's disease who are experiencing symptoms and seeking new treatment options.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have Lewy Body Dementia or Parkinson's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of gut microbiota in the effectiveness of immunotherapy for Lewy Body Dementia (LBD) and Parkinson's disease (PD). It aims to understand how changes in gut bacteria can affect immune responses and the progression of these neurodegenerative diseases. The study will utilize animal models to assess immune markers and the impact of immunotherapy at different stages of disease progression. By examining the relationship between gut health and treatment efficacy, the research seeks to identify new therapeutic strategies for patients suffering from these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective immunotherapy treatments for patients with Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have gone: There is emerging evidence suggesting that gut microbiota can influence treatment outcomes in various cancers, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vedam-Mai, Vinata — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Vedam-Mai, Vinata
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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.