Investigating how alpha-synuclein protein spreads in Parkinson's disease and related dementias
Official title: Optical Sensing of the Spread of Alpha-Synuclein Aggregates in Models of Parkinson's Disease and Related Dementias
Funded at Purdue University · NIH-10986511 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-synuclein clumps together and spreads between brain cells, which may help us find new ways to slow down Parkinson's disease and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Purdue University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (West Lafayette, United States) |
| Project start | July 5, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $406,260 |
| NIH project number | 1R21NS135424-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10986511 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or related dementias who are interested in contributing to advancements in treatment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurological disorders unrelated to Parkinson's disease or those who are not diagnosed with any form of dementia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to understand how the protein alpha-synuclein aggregates and spreads between neurons, which is believed to contribute to the progression of Parkinson's disease and related dementias. By using advanced imaging techniques, the researchers will explore the molecular mechanisms behind this process in live cells and animal models. The goal is to identify how these aggregates form and propagate, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies to slow down or alleviate symptoms of these conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of therapies that delay or alleviate the symptoms of Parkinson's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Purdue University
West Lafayette, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Webb, Kevin J — Purdue University
- Study coordinator: Webb, Kevin J
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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.