Investigating brain network dysfunction and treatment in aging-related dementia
Cognitive and Affective Network Dysfunction and Neuromodulation in Aging and Synucleinopathy
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-synuclein affects thinking and emotions in older adults with dementia, especially those with Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease, to find ways to help improve their quality of life and ease symptoms like memory problems and anxiety.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11112424 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the accumulation of a protein called alpha-synuclein affects cognitive and emotional brain networks in older adults with dementia, particularly those related to Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease. The study aims to explore the interactions between aging and alpha-synuclein to better understand the non-motor symptoms experienced by patients, such as cognitive impairment and anxiety. By identifying these mechanisms, the research seeks to develop potential neuromodulation therapies that could improve the quality of life for affected individuals. Patients and their families often face significant challenges due to these symptoms, and this research aims to address that unmet need.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are older adults experiencing cognitive and affective symptoms associated with synucleinopathies like Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with dementia not related to synucleinopathies or those who are not of advanced age may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that alleviate cognitive and emotional symptoms in patients with dementia related to alpha-synuclein.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific interactions between age and alpha-synuclein in cognitive dysfunction are underexplored, similar research has shown promise in understanding neurodegenerative diseases and developing targeted therapies.
Where this research is happening
Gainesville, United States
- University of Florida — Gainesville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Burns, Matthew Robert — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Burns, Matthew Robert
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.