How mutations in LRRK2 affect iron levels in brain cells related to Parkinson's disease
Official title: Dysregulation of iron homeostasis by mutant LRRK2 in human neurons
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-10745725 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a gene related to Parkinson's disease affect iron levels in brain cells, which could help us understand if too much iron is part of the problem or just a result of the disease, and it aims to provide helpful information for people living with Parkinson's.
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 | December 1, 2022 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $190,625 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG077269-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10745725 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, particularly those with known LRRK2 mutations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without Parkinson's disease or those with different genetic mutations unrelated to LRRK2 may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how specific mutations in the LRRK2 gene influence iron levels in neurons, particularly in the context of Parkinson's disease. By examining the effects of these mutations on iron homeostasis, the study aims to determine whether iron accumulation is a cause or a consequence of the disease. The research employs various biochemical and imaging techniques to analyze neuronal behavior and iron levels in both laboratory settings and patient samples. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the role of iron in Parkinson's disease progression.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies targeting iron regulation in Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that targeting iron dysregulation can have beneficial effects in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mamais, Adamantios — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Mamais, Adamantios
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.