Exploring the connection between specific genes and Lewy Body Dementia
Official title: Intersection of GBA and LRRK2 in Lewy Body Dementia
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11138659 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a specific gene might play a role in Lewy Body Dementia, and if you have LBD or are at risk, you can help by sharing samples to better understand these genetic links and find new ways to treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $566,785 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG082373-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138659 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia or those with a family history of related neurodegenerative diseases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia that do not involve the genetic factors being studied may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the genetic factors that contribute to Lewy Body Dementia (LBD), particularly focusing on the GBA1 gene, which has been identified as a significant risk factor. The study aims to understand how mutations in this gene may lead to the development of LBD and its associated neuropathology. By examining the cellular mechanisms involved, the research seeks to uncover potential pathways that could be targeted for therapeutic interventions. Patients with LBD or those at risk may provide biological samples to help elucidate these genetic connections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and potential treatments for Lewy Body Dementia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding genetic influences on neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lavoie, Matthew J — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Lavoie, Matthew J
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
Investigating how DNA damage and repair mechanisms are altered in ALS and frontotemporal dementia.
This study is looking at how problems with DNA repair might contribute to conditions like ALS and frontotemporal dementia, and it’s testing ways to fix these issues in cells from patients to help develop new treatments.
-
Synthetic protein mimetics to treat Lewy Body Dementia
A new therapeutic approach using engineered protein-like molecules to block the harmful protein clumps that cause Lewy Body Dementia.
-
Dementia care staff study: adapting a US survey for use in many countries
A study is adapting and testing a survey for dementia care workers in the US, Brazil, Switzerland, and Ghana to help understand why workers stay in their jobs and how to improve care.
-
Dementia care staff study: adapting a survey for use in many countries
A multinational study will adapt and test a U.S. dementia-care worker survey in Brazil, Switzerland, and Ghana to help understand why staff stay in or leave long-term care settings.
-
Study of Dementia Care Staff in 4 Countries: Adapting Caregiver Surveys Across Cultures
A multinational project will adapt and test a dementia care worker survey so researchers can compare care environments across the US, Brazil, Switzerland, and Ghana.
-
New biomarkers to distinguish LATE from Alzheimer’s disease in dementia
A study to develop blood and CSF tests that can tell apart LATE from Alzheimer’s disease in people with dementia.
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.