Investigating how Prokineticin 2 affects brain damage from manganese exposure
Official title: Role of Prokineticin 2 in Metal Neurotoxicity
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10954260 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a substance called Prokineticin 2 (PK2) might help protect the brain from damage caused by manganese, which can lead to movement and thinking problems, and it hopes to find new ways to help people with conditions like Parkinson's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project start | January 25, 2023 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $339,750 |
| NIH project number | 5R01ES034196-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10954260 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of manganese exposure or those experiencing neurological symptoms related to neurotoxicity.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have any exposure to manganese or related neurotoxic conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Prokineticin 2 (PK2) in the brain's response to manganese neurotoxicity, which is linked to conditions like Parkinsonism. The study focuses on how manganese accumulates in specific brain regions, particularly affecting GABAergic neurons and leading to motor and cognitive impairments. By examining animal models and neurotoxicological mechanisms, the research aims to understand how PK2 may help protect against neurodegeneration and improve brain health. Patients may benefit from insights into new therapeutic strategies targeting PK2 to mitigate the effects of manganese exposure.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect the brain from damage caused by manganese exposure.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neurotoxic mechanisms and protective responses, suggesting potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder
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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.