Investigating how a specific proton channel in brain cells contributes to inflammation and nerve cell damage from environmental factors.
Official title: Microglial Hv1 Proton Channel as a Mediator of Environmentally-Induced Neuroinflammation and Neurodegeneration
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-11035226 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific channel in brain immune cells reacts to harmful substances, like certain pesticides, and how this might lead to brain inflammation and diseases like Parkinson's, with the hope of finding new ways to protect nerve cells and improve treatment options for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | February 14, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $606,576 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES033892-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11035226 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those with a history of exposure to environmental toxins.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not linked to environmental factors or those who do not have a history of toxin exposure may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of the Hv1 proton channel in microglial cells, which are crucial for the brain's immune response. It examines how environmental toxins, like the herbicide paraquat, can trigger neuroinflammation and contribute to neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease. By exploring the mechanisms behind microglial activation and inflammation, the study aims to identify new therapeutic targets that could help protect nerve cells and slow disease progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained about potential new treatments that could mitigate the effects of neuroinflammation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect against neurodegeneration and improve outcomes for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting microglial activation and inflammation as a therapeutic strategy, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Richardson, Jason R — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Richardson, Jason R
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.