Investigating how pollutants cause nerve cell damage in Parkinson's disease
Official title: Which mechanisms of pollutant-induced mitochondrial dysfunction cause dopaminergic neurodegeneration?
Funded at Duke University · NIH-10954711 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain environmental pollutants might harm the tiny powerhouses in our cells, which could lead to problems with movement and contribute to Parkinson's disease, helping us find ways to prevent or treat the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $400,684 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES034270-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954711 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals over the age of 60 who are at risk for or have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Parkinson's disease who are not exposed to environmental pollutants or who have other unrelated causes of neurodegeneration may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the mechanisms by which environmental pollutants lead to mitochondrial dysfunction and contribute to the degeneration of dopaminergic neurons, which are crucial for movement control. By examining various chemicals that may affect mitochondrial function, the study aims to identify specific pathways that lead to Parkinson's disease. The approach includes laboratory experiments and toxicological screenings to prioritize which chemicals should be tested further for their impact on nerve cells. This research could provide insights into both prevention and treatment strategies for Parkinson's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventive measures and therapies for Parkinson's disease, potentially slowing its progression.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown success in identifying environmental factors contributing to Parkinson's disease, but this specific approach to prioritizing chemical testing is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
-
Duke University
Durham, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Meyer, Joel Newman — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Meyer, Joel Newman
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.