Investigating how gut health affects Parkinson's Disease
Intestinal mitochondrial dysfunction and the gut-brain-immune axis in models of Parkinson's Disease
This study is looking at how problems in the gut might be linked to Parkinson's Disease, with the hope of finding early signs that could help diagnose the condition sooner and create better treatments for people living with it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11052537 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores the connection between the gastrointestinal tract and Parkinson's Disease (PD), focusing on how mitochondrial dysfunction in the intestines may contribute to the disease. By studying intestinal tissues from animal models, the researchers aim to identify specific gut-related biomarkers that could help diagnose PD early and develop targeted therapies. The approach includes examining inflammation and mitochondrial stress in intestinal samples and testing the effects of α-Synuclein, a protein linked to PD, on gut health. This research could lead to innovative strategies for managing PD before significant symptoms appear.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over 21 years old who are at risk for or have early-stage Parkinson's Disease.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Parkinson's Disease or those without gastrointestinal symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and new treatment options for Parkinson's Disease, potentially slowing its progression.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the gut-brain connection in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Videlock, Elizabeth Jane — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Videlock, Elizabeth Jane
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 below.