Investigating protein aggregation in Lewy Body Disease using zebrafish models
A new in vivo zebrafish model to study alpha-synuclein aggregation in Lewy Body Disease
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-synuclein clumps together in brain cells and affects communication between them, using zebrafish to help understand this process better, which could eventually lead to new treatments for Lewy Body Disease and similar conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Lewis and Clark College NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Portland, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10731005 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how alpha-synuclein protein aggregates in neurons contribute to Lewy Body Disease and related conditions. By utilizing a zebrafish model, researchers aim to explore the mechanisms behind protein aggregation and its effects on neuronal communication. The study will examine specific mutations and modifications of alpha-synuclein to determine their roles in disease progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained that could lead to new therapeutic strategies for neurodegenerative diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Lewy Body Disease or related neurodegenerative conditions.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not associated with alpha-synuclein aggregation may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of treatments that halt or slow the progression of Lewy Body Disease and related neurodegenerative disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using animal models to study protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Portland, United States
- Lewis and Clark College — Portland, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Weissman, Tamily a — Lewis and Clark College
- Study coordinator: Weissman, Tamily a
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.