Identifying biomarkers for parkinsonian disorders using blood samples
Official title: Biomarkers for parkinsonian disorders in CNS-originating extracellular vesicles
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-10662918 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking to make it easier to diagnose Parkinson's disease and similar conditions by checking for specific markers in blood samples, which could help doctors tell the difference between these disorders and lead to better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $2,374,652 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS126406-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10662918 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals experiencing symptoms of Parkinson's disease or atypical parkinsonian disorders, particularly within the first two years of diagnosis.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with well-established diagnoses of parkinsonian disorders who are not in the early stages of their condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on improving the diagnosis of Parkinson's disease and atypical parkinsonian disorders by identifying specific biomarkers found in extracellular vesicles from blood samples. The approach involves analyzing the concentration of α-synuclein in these vesicles, which can help differentiate between various parkinsonian conditions. By utilizing a minimally invasive blood draw, the study aims to create a comprehensive biomarker panel that can be applied early in the disease process, potentially leading to more accurate diagnoses and better treatment options. Serum samples will be collected from both national biorepositories and local expert clinics to ensure a robust analysis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more accurate diagnoses of parkinsonian disorders, reducing misdiagnosis and improving treatment outcomes for patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using biomarkers for diagnosing parkinsonian disorders, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bitan, Gal — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Bitan, Gal
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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.