Investigating the structure of proteins involved in Lewy body dementia
Patient-based structural biology of Lewy body dementia using cryo-electron microscopy
This study is looking at how certain proteins change in the brains of people with Lewy body dementia to help us understand the disease better and find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Jacksonville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Jacksonville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10686903 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the structural changes of proteins, specifically α-synuclein, that occur in the brains of patients with Lewy body dementia and related neurodegenerative diseases. Using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy, the researchers aim to analyze the molecular composition of protein aggregates that are characteristic of these conditions. By extracting and studying these protein structures from diseased brains, the research seeks to uncover critical insights into the pathogenesis of Lewy body dementia and potentially identify new therapeutic targets.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Lewy body dementia or other related neurodegenerative diseases.
Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to Lewy body dementia may not receive direct benefits from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from Lewy body dementia and related disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding protein structures in neurodegenerative diseases, making this approach both relevant and potentially impactful.
Where this research is happening
Jacksonville, United States
- Mayo Clinic Jacksonville — Jacksonville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fitzpatrick, Anthony William Paul — Mayo Clinic Jacksonville
- Study coordinator: Fitzpatrick, Anthony William Paul
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.