Investigating new imaging techniques for brain diseases related to alpha-synuclein.
In Vitro and In Vivo Characterization of Alpha-Synuclein PET Radiotracers
This study is working on creating new imaging tools to help doctors see a protein linked to Parkinson's disease and other brain disorders, which could lead to better ways to diagnose these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10940634 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing new PET radiotracers to visualize aggregated alpha-synuclein in the brain, which is associated with various neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson's disease and dementia with Lewy bodies. The approach involves conducting in vitro binding studies and PET imaging studies to evaluate the effectiveness of these radiotracers. By using advanced screening methods and binding assays, the researchers aim to identify compounds that can accurately target alpha-synuclein aggregates, potentially leading to improved diagnostic capabilities for these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, dementia with Lewy bodies, or multiple system atrophy.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to alpha-synuclein, such as Alzheimer's disease primarily driven by amyloid-beta pathology, may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could enhance the accuracy of diagnosing neurodegenerative diseases linked to alpha-synuclein, leading to better patient management and treatment options.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using PET imaging for other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield successful outcomes as well.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mach, Robert H — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Mach, Robert H
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 below.