Investigating genetic factors in neurodegenerative diseases
Official title: Genetic Analysis of Neurodegeneration
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11080984 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain genes affect brain diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's as we age, using fruit flies to help find important clues that could lead to new treatments for people with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | May 1, 2023 |
| Project end | April 30, 2031 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $921,694 |
| NIH project number | 5R35NS132225-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11080984 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing symptoms of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those related to aging.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not associated with age or those in very early stages of disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the genetic mechanisms behind neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, particularly as they relate to aging. Using fruit flies as a model organism, researchers aim to identify key genes involved in neurodegeneration and validate these findings in human tissues and cells. The study will specifically explore how alterations in the spectrin cytoskeleton contribute to neurodegeneration, which could lead to new therapeutic targets. By leveraging advanced genetic screening techniques, the research seeks to uncover novel insights into disease processes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of disease-modifying therapies for neurodegenerative conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research using similar genetic models has shown promise in identifying potential therapeutic targets for neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Feany, Mel B — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Feany, Mel B
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.