Investigating the role of MIF nuclease in dementia caused by alpha-synuclein buildup
Official title: MIF Nuclease actions in Synuclein Dementias
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10993197 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-synuclein can build up in brain cells and cause problems like memory loss in people with conditions such as Dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia, and it hopes to find ways to protect brain cells and improve thinking skills for those affected.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | December 1, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $736,580 |
| NIH project number | 5R01AG085688-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10993197 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Dementia with Lewy bodies or Parkinson’s disease dementia.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive dysfunction not related to alpha-synucleinopathies may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how the accumulation of misfolded alpha-synuclein protein in neurons leads to neurodegeneration and cognitive decline in conditions like Dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease dementia. The study will explore the mechanisms of cell death associated with this protein buildup, particularly through a process called parthanatos, which is distinct from other forms of cell death. Researchers will investigate the role of MIF nuclease activity and how inhibiting this activity may protect against cognitive dysfunction in these disorders. By examining these pathways, the research aims to identify potential therapeutic targets for improving cognitive function in affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that slow or prevent cognitive decline in patients with alpha-synucleinopathies.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in neuroprotection by targeting similar pathways in other neurodegenerative disease models.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Dawson, Valina L. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Dawson, Valina L.
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.