How the brain molecule PK2 responds to manganese-related nerve damage
Role of Prokineticin 2 in Metal Neurotoxicity
This project looks at whether a brain protein called PK2 helps protect nerve cells from manganese-related damage that can cause movement problems and loss of smell in adults.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11222285 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you've experienced movement or smell problems linked to manganese exposure, this work studies a molecule called prokineticin 2 (PK2) that may help brain cells survive. Researchers will use cell and animal models to track PK2 levels in affected brain regions (like the globus pallidus, substantia nigra, and olfactory bulb) after manganese exposure and measure related changes in behavior and smell. They will test whether the early increase in PK2 activates survival pathways and whether altering PK2 changes the course of neurotoxicity. Findings aim to clarify mechanisms that could point toward future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with a history of significant manganese exposure or with manganese-associated movement or olfactory disturbances would be the most relevant group for eventual clinical follow-up.
Not a fit: People with Parkinson's disease from causes unrelated to manganese exposure are less likely to benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could point to ways to protect brain cells from manganese poisoning and reduce related movement and smell problems.
How similar studies have performed: Previous animal studies have shown PK2 can act protectively in toxin-based models of neurodegeneration, but applying these findings specifically to manganese exposure is a new direction.
Where this research is happening
Athens, United States
- University of Georgia — Athens, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder
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.