Investigating alpha-synuclein changes as an early indicator of neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Changes in synaptic vesicle-binding of alpha-synuclein as an early biomarker for synucleinopathies
Funded at Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · NIH-11049709 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in a protein called alpha-synuclein might help us spot early signs of neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, so we can diagnose and help people sooner, even before they show any symptoms.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2024 |
| Project end | November 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $793,535 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS136423-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11049709 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals at risk for Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's-related dementias, particularly those experiencing early symptoms such as gastrointestinal issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with established neurodegenerative diseases who are already diagnosed may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how changes in the binding of alpha-synuclein to synaptic vesicles can serve as an early biomarker for neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's disease and Alzheimer's-related dementias. By examining both the brain and the enteric nervous system, the study aims to identify specific changes that occur before the onset of noticeable symptoms. The researchers will utilize biochemical analyses to explore these changes, potentially leading to earlier diagnosis and intervention for affected individuals.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enable earlier detection and treatment of neurodegenerative diseases, improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in identifying biomarkers for neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burre, Jacqueline — Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ
- Study coordinator: Burre, Jacqueline
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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.