Investigating how inflammation caused by alpha-synuclein affects multiple system atrophy
Mechanisms of alpha-synuclein mediated inflammation in multiple system atrophy
This study is looking at how inflammation affects multiple system atrophy (MSA) and aims to understand how the immune system might play a role in the disease, with the hope of finding new ways to help people with MSA.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Birmingham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11168261 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of inflammation in multiple system atrophy (MSA), a neurodegenerative disorder linked to the protein alpha-synuclein. The study examines how the immune system contributes to the disease's progression by analyzing immune responses in both human brains and animal models. Researchers are using a novel viral vector to target specific brain cells in mice, allowing them to observe the effects of immune modulation on neuroinflammation and demyelination. By exploring the mechanisms of immune-mediated damage, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for MSA.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with multiple system atrophy who are experiencing symptoms related to neuroinflammation.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurodegenerative disorders not related to alpha-synuclein or those without a diagnosis of multiple system atrophy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that modify the immune response in patients with multiple system atrophy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting immune responses in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may be effective for MSA as well.
Where this research is happening
Birmingham, United States
- University of Alabama at Birmingham — Birmingham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Harms, Ashley N — University of Alabama at Birmingham
- Study coordinator: Harms, Ashley N
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.