Investigating a magnesium transport protein linked to Parkinson's disease
Studies of SLC41A1, a Mg2+-Transporting Protein Linked to Parkinson's Disease
This study is looking at a protein called SLC41A1 that helps move magnesium in our cells, and it aims to find out how changes in this protein might affect magnesium levels and contribute to Parkinson's disease, which could help us understand the condition better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Kansas Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Kansas City, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11099805 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on the SLC41A1 protein, which transports magnesium and may play a crucial role in the development of Parkinson's disease. The study aims to understand how mutations in this protein affect magnesium levels in cells and contribute to neurodegeneration. By using advanced techniques like liposomal flux assays and electron cryo-microscopy, researchers will explore the protein's function and its impact on cellular health. This could lead to new insights into the mechanisms of Parkinson's disease and potential therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a family history of Parkinson's disease or those who have been diagnosed with the condition.
Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease caused by factors unrelated to magnesium transport may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Parkinson's disease by targeting magnesium transport mechanisms.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of magnesium in neurobiology is gaining attention, this specific investigation into SLC41A1 is relatively novel and has not been extensively studied before.
Where this research is happening
Kansas City, United States
- University of Kansas Medical Center — Kansas City, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zubcevic, Lejla — University of Kansas Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Zubcevic, Lejla
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.