How neurons manage damaged proteins and organelles.
Official title: Interplay between macroautophagy and secretory autophagy in neurons.
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-11037881 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells deal with damaged parts when their usual cleanup methods aren't working well, especially in conditions like Parkinson's disease, to see if they can find new ways to stay healthy.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | September 11, 2023 |
| Project end | February 10, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $77,284 |
| NIH project number | 5F32NS129586-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11037881 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those experiencing symptoms related to protein aggregation and neuronal dysfunction.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with acute neurological injuries or those without neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how neurons handle the accumulation of damaged proteins and organelles when their normal degradation processes are overwhelmed. It explores the role of autophagy, a cellular cleanup process, and whether neurons can use an alternative method of secretion to remove cellular waste. By examining the interaction between autophagy and secretion, the study aims to understand how neurons maintain their health and function, particularly in the context of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's. The research employs advanced techniques, including CRISPR, to manipulate and observe neuronal responses under stress.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases by enhancing neuronal health and function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding autophagy mechanisms in other cell types, suggesting potential for success in neuronal studies.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Palumbos, Sierra Danielle — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Palumbos, Sierra Danielle
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.