Exploring the connections between a protein linked to Parkinson's disease and RNA binding proteins
Official title: Investigating physiologic and pathophysiologic connections between the Parkinson's disease protein alpha-synuclein and RNA binding proteins
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10890170 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein linked to Parkinson's disease affects brain cells and their ability to manage important molecules, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with Alzheimer's and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $831,256 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS128142-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10890170 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease, Lewy Body Dementia, or Parkinson's disease with dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Alzheimer's or Lewy Body pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how the protein alpha-synuclein, which is associated with Parkinson's disease and related dementias, interacts with RNA binding proteins in neurons. The study aims to understand the mechanisms by which alpha-synuclein contributes to neurotoxicity and disrupts RNA homeostasis, which may lead to neurodegeneration. By examining these interactions, the research seeks to uncover potential pathways that could be targeted for therapeutic interventions in Alzheimer's disease and related disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies for Alzheimer's disease and related dementias by targeting the mechanisms of neurotoxicity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of alpha-synuclein in neurodegeneration, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khurana, Vikram — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Khurana, Vikram
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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.