Investigating how trichloroethylene exposure affects Parkinson's disease development

The role of lysosomal impairment in trichloroethylene induced Parkinsonian neurodegeneration

NIH-funded research University of Alabama at Birmingham · NIH-11199777

This study is looking at how a chemical called trichloroethylene (TCE) might be linked to Parkinson's disease and aims to find out how it affects brain cells, which could help us discover new ways to prevent or treat the condition for people living with it.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Birmingham, United States)
Project IDNIH-11199777 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on understanding the connection between exposure to the chemical trichloroethylene (TCE) and the development of Parkinson's disease (PD). It examines how TCE impairs the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, leading to the accumulation of misfolded proteins and neurodegeneration. By studying both genetic and environmental factors, the research aims to uncover the mechanisms that contribute to PD, particularly in relation to lysosomal function. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to new prevention or treatment strategies for Parkinson's disease.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include adults who have been exposed to trichloroethylene and are at risk for developing Parkinson's disease.

Not a fit: Patients who have not been exposed to trichloroethylene or do not have a risk of developing Parkinson's disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating Parkinson's disease linked to environmental exposures.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that environmental exposures can significantly impact the development of Parkinson's disease, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Birmingham, 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.