Investigating how lipids affect fatty acid balance in Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia

Mechanistic Dissection of Lipase (LIPE) Regulation of Fatty Acid Homeostasis as a Parkinson's Disease and Lewy Body Dementia Therapeutic Strategy

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11095857

This study is looking at how a protein related to Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia affects fat and oil balance in our cells, with the hope of finding new ways to help manage symptoms for people living with these conditions.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11095857 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the role of α-synuclein, a protein linked to Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia, in regulating lipid metabolism and fatty acid homeostasis. By using both laboratory and animal models, the study aims to explore how misfolded α-synuclein interacts with lipid membranes and affects cellular processes. The goal is to identify potential therapeutic targets that could restore balance in lipid and fatty acid levels, which may help alleviate symptoms of these neurodegenerative diseases.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or Lewy body dementia.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurodegenerative disorders not related to α-synuclein may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve the management of Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in targeting lipid metabolism in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could be effective.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.