Investigating how a specific enzyme affects brain cell function and diseases.
Official title: Chemical Biology of the E3 Ubiqutin Ligase Nedd4
Funded at Duke University · NIH-11009593 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific enzyme called Nedd4 affects the harmful protein alpha-synuclein, which is linked to diseases like Parkinson's, to find new ways to help manage or treat these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | March 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $285,122 |
| NIH project number | 5R01GM148770-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11009593 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with neurodegenerative disorders, particularly those related to alpha-synuclein, such as Parkinson's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not associated with alpha-synuclein or those without any neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on the role of the Nedd4 enzyme in regulating cellular processes related to neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those involving the protein alpha-synuclein. By exploring how Nedd4 influences the toxicity associated with alpha-synuclein, the research aims to identify new therapeutic targets for conditions like Parkinson's disease. The approach includes using small molecules that can modify Nedd4's activity and studying their effects on cellular models. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how to better manage or treat neurodegenerative disorders linked to protein aggregation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments for neurodegenerative diseases characterized by protein aggregation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting similar pathways in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mccafferty, Dewey G — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Mccafferty, Dewey G
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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.