Investigating a new pathway that contributes to Parkinson’s Disease
Official title: Characterization and targeting of a novel pathway promoting Parkinson’s Disease
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-10855706 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called tPA might contribute to inflammation and nerve damage in Parkinson's Disease, using mice that have a similar condition, to find ways to protect brain cells and help improve movement.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2023 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $647,116 |
| NIH project number | 1R56NS132411-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10855706 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson’s Disease or those at risk of developing it due to genetic or environmental factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Parkinson’s Disease who are in advanced stages or have other complicating neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how a specific pathway promotes neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration in Parkinson’s Disease (PD). It examines the role of a protein called tissue plasminogen activator (tPA) and its interaction with a receptor that may lead to neuronal loss. By using a mouse model that mimics PD, the researchers aim to uncover mechanisms that could potentially be targeted for therapeutic interventions. The study also explores how blocking this pathway might protect neurons and improve movement-related behaviors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow down or prevent the progression of Parkinson’s Disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting neuroinflammatory pathways in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be beneficial.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lawrence, Daniel a — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Lawrence, Daniel a
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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.