Investigating how small molecules activate the Nurr1 receptor to protect neurons.
Official title: Molecular basis of activation of the orphan nuclear receptor Nurr1
Funded at Vanderbilt University · NIH-11060991 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain small molecules can help activate a protein called Nurr1, which might protect brain cells from damage in diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, and the researchers want to find out how these molecules work together at a tiny level to create better treatments for these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Vanderbilt University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | April 25, 2023 |
| Project end | February 28, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $558,167 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG070719-06 |
| Project ID | NIH-11060991 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing early symptoms of Alzheimer's or Parkinson's diseases, particularly those with age-related neurodegeneration.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative conditions unrelated to aging or those in advanced stages of these diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how small molecule ligands can activate the Nurr1 receptor, which may help protect neurons from degeneration in conditions like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's diseases. The team will conduct detailed mechanistic studies using advanced techniques such as NMR spectroscopy and X-ray crystallography to explore how these ligands interact with Nurr1 and its partner RXR at the molecular level. By uncovering these interactions, the research aims to optimize therapeutic agents that could potentially slow down or prevent neurodegeneration associated with aging.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new neuroprotective therapies that improve outcomes for patients with neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using similar approaches to activate nuclear receptors for neuroprotection, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
-
Vanderbilt University
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kojetin, Douglas — Vanderbilt University
- Study coordinator: Kojetin, Douglas
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.