How the DJ-1 protein affects energy production in dopamine nerve cells linked to Parkinson's
Role of DJ1 in mitochondrial biogenergetics and neuronal metabolism
['FUNDING_R01'] · YALE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11112441
This research looks at whether problems with the DJ-1 protein and the cell's energy machinery cause nerve cell damage in early-onset Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | YALE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11112441 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
From your point of view, researchers are studying cells from patients and mouse neurons to see how DJ-1 mutations change mitochondrial function and the efficiency of ATP synthase. They measure mitochondrial shape, ATP production, and new protein synthesis, and examine how DJ-1 binds the ATP synthase β subunit and its mRNA. The team will try to restore normal protein synthesis downstream of DJ-1 to see if that improves growth, branching, and dopamine release in affected neurons. This lab-based work in patient cells and animal models is intended to point toward potential future treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates would be people with early-onset or familial Parkinson's disease, especially those known to carry DJ-1 (PARK7) mutations, who can provide cells or clinical information.
Not a fit: People with forms of Parkinson's not linked to DJ-1 or with unrelated neurological conditions may be less likely to benefit directly from these findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to treatments that restore energy production and help repair dopamine neurons in people with DJ-1–related Parkinson's.
How similar studies have performed: Previous lab studies have connected DJ-1 to mitochondrial health, but approaches to restore protein synthesis and ATP synthase function in patients remain experimental and unproven.
Where this research is happening
NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES
- YALE UNIVERSITY — NEW HAVEN, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: JONAS, ELIZABETH ANN — YALE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: JONAS, ELIZABETH ANN
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.