Investigating the role of alpha-synuclein in dementia
Cortical Alpha-Synuclein in Dementia
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF IOWA · NIH-11020944
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-synuclein affects brain function in people with Lewy Body dementias, like Parkinson’s disease Dementia, to help find better treatments by seeing how it disrupts communication between brain cells.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF IOWA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11020944 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the protein alpha-synuclein affects brain function in patients with Lewy Body dementias, such as Parkinson’s disease Dementia and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. By using advanced imaging techniques, the study aims to observe how alpha-synuclein aggregates disrupt communication between brain cells in the prefrontal cortex, which is crucial for planning and attention. The researchers will manipulate the levels of alpha-synuclein in specific brain regions to assess its impact on neuronal activity and plasticity. This approach could lead to insights that inform the development of targeted treatments for these types of dementia.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lewy Body dementias, including those with Parkinson’s disease Dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Lewy Body pathology may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies that improve cognitive function in patients with Lewy Body dementias.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of alpha-synuclein in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF IOWA — IOWA CITY, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ALDRIDGE, GEORGINA — UNIVERSITY OF IOWA
- Study coordinator: ALDRIDGE, GEORGINA
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome