How chemical tags change alpha‑synuclein shape and clumping
Combinatorial effects of PTMs on a-Synuclein structure function and aggregation
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · NIH-11345242
This project looks at how chemical changes on the brain protein alpha‑synuclein alter its shape and tendency to clump in people with Parkinson's disease and related conditions.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11345242 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Researchers will create alpha‑synuclein proteins with different combinations of chemical tags using a semi‑synthesis approach and study how those tags change the protein's folding and aggregation. They will use biochemical and biophysical tests, cellular assays, and structural biology methods to compare single and multiple modifications. The team will also compare their engineered proteins to patient‑derived samples to better reflect what is seen in human disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Parkinson's disease or other synucleinopathies who are willing to provide biosamples or participate in tissue donation would be the most relevant participants for related sample collection efforts.
Not a fit: People without synucleinopathy diagnoses or those seeking immediate new treatments are unlikely to gain direct clinical benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could clarify which chemically modified forms of alpha‑synuclein are most harmful and guide development of better diagnostics or targeted therapies for Parkinson's and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Prior studies have shown that individual chemical modifications can change alpha‑synuclein behavior, but combining multiple modifications with the semi‑synthesis and structural approach used here is relatively new.
Where this research is happening
PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA — PHILADELPHIA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: RHOADES, ELIZABETH — UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA
- Study coordinator: RHOADES, ELIZABETH
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.