How gut immune cells interact with nerve cells in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: The interactions between myenteric macrophages and enteric neurons shape development and spread of enteric synucleinopathy
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10723844 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the gut interact with nerve cells and how these interactions might be connected to conditions like Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's disease, helping us understand how gut health can affect brain health, especially as we age.
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 | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $408,057 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS133384-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10723844 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms related to Lewy Body Dementia or Parkinson's disease, particularly those with gastrointestinal issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any neurodegenerative diseases or gastrointestinal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of myenteric macrophages, a type of immune cell in the gut, and their interactions with enteric neurons, which are nerve cells in the digestive system. The study aims to understand how these interactions contribute to the development and progression of synucleinopathies, such as those seen in Lewy Body Dementia and Parkinson's disease. By exploring the immune response in the gut, the research seeks to uncover mechanisms that may link gut dysfunction to neurodegenerative diseases. This could provide insights into how gut health impacts brain health, particularly in aging populations.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that target gut health to prevent or mitigate neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific focus on myenteric macrophages is novel, similar research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain connection in neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Khoshbouei, Habibeh — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Khoshbouei, Habibeh
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.