Investigating how dopamine transporters behave in Parkinson's Disease
Official title: Exploring Dopamine Transporter Recycling and Trafficking Defects in Parkinson's Disease
Funded at Yale University · NIH-11068091 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how problems with dopamine transporters might cause the loss of important brain cells in people with Parkinson's Disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help prevent serious symptoms before they start.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2025 |
| Project end | September 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 1F31NS141468-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11068091 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with genetic forms of Parkinson's Disease or those experiencing early symptoms of the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Parkinson's Disease or those without genetic predispositions to the condition may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the early mechanisms that lead to dopamine neuron loss in Parkinson's Disease (PD). By examining the recycling and trafficking of dopamine transporters, the study aims to identify how these processes are disrupted in various genetic forms of PD. Using advanced imaging techniques and in vitro models, researchers will explore the relationship between dopamine transporter function and the onset of motor impairments. This could lead to insights that help develop therapies to intervene before significant neuron loss occurs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that prevent or slow the progression of Parkinson's Disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding dopamine transporter dynamics in related conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Yale University
New Haven, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harmon, Leah Elizabeth — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Harmon, Leah Elizabeth
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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.