Investigating how Prokineticin 2 affects brain damage from manganese exposure

Role of Prokineticin 2 in Metal Neurotoxicity

NIH-funded research University of Georgia · NIH-10954260

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 typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Georgia NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Athens, United States)
Project IDNIH-10954260 on NIH RePORTER

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with a history of manganese exposure or those experiencing neurological symptoms related to neurotoxicity.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have any exposure to manganese or related neurotoxic conditions may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

Athens, 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.