Investigating how Prokineticin 2 affects brain health in Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Role of Prokineticin 2 in Metal Neurotoxicity
Funded at University of Georgia · NIH-10940248 · 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 metals like manganese, which can affect memory and smell in people with Alzheimer's disease-related dementia, with the hope of finding new ways to support brain health.
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 | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $331,166 |
| NIH project number | 3R01ES034196-02S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10940248 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias, particularly those with a history of environmental metal exposure.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with forms of dementia unrelated to Alzheimer's disease or those without any exposure to environmental metals may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research explores the role of Prokineticin 2 (PK2) in protecting the brain from damage caused by environmental factors linked to Alzheimer's disease-related dementia (ADRD). The study focuses on understanding how PK2 signaling may help counteract the harmful effects of metal exposure, particularly manganese, which has been associated with cognitive decline and olfactory dysfunction. By examining the molecular mechanisms involved, the research aims to uncover new insights into how the brain can potentially defend itself against neurotoxicity and related cognitive impairments. Patients with ADRD may benefit from findings that could lead to new therapeutic strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that protect brain health and improve cognitive function in patients with Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding neuroprotective mechanisms in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
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University of Georgia
Athens, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Kanthasamy, Anumantha Gounder
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.