How a Parkinson’s-linked gene (LRRK2) damages dopamine nerve cell branches
LRRK2 in Parkinson's Disease Neurodegeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11002646
Researchers are looking at how a common Parkinson’s gene change called LRRK2 G2019S causes loss of nerve-cell branches that may lead to dopamine neuron death in people with Parkinson’s disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PORTLAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11002646 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project uses fruit flies as a model to copy a common Parkinson’s gene change (LRRK2 G2019S) and watch how dopamine nerve cells change as the animals age. The team will turn the gene on at different life stages and measure nerve-branch length and complexity, then test whether three other genes (prospero, cut, and pbl) change those branch defects. By comparing flies with and without these modifier genes the researchers aim to see if branch loss is necessary and sufficient for dopamine neuron death. Results could reveal molecular steps that later guide drug development.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Parkinson’s disease, especially those known to carry LRRK2 changes, are the group this research ultimately aims to benefit, though no patients are being enrolled in the lab work.
Not a fit: Patients whose Parkinson’s is unrelated to LRRK2 or who have other neurological diagnoses may not see direct benefit from these specific findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the work could point to specific genes or pathways to target in treatments that slow or prevent nerve-cell loss in Parkinson’s disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies have linked LRRK2 mutations to nerve-branch defects and LRRK2-targeting drugs are in development, but using fly genetics to pinpoint modifier genes is a newer, more exploratory approach.
Where this research is happening
PORTLAND, UNITED STATES
- OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY — PORTLAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MARTIN, IAN — OREGON HEALTH & SCIENCE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MARTIN, IAN
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 below.
Conditions: Brain Diseases, Brain Disorders