Molecular Guided T Cells to help neurodegeneration
Official title: Molecular Guided T Cells to target neurodegeneration
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11606634 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new T cell therapy approach is explored to slow progression in dementia with Lewy bodies and Parkinson’s disease for patients affected by these disorders.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 10, 2026 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $527,750 |
| NIH project number | 1R56NS146706-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11606634 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are individuals with Lewy body dementia or Parkinson’s disease who are in early to mid stages and could participate in future immunotherapy trials.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced disease or those unable to participate in preclinical-to-clinical transition steps may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project focuses on a molecular guided T cell therapy (MCT) aimed at reducing disease-causing alpha-synuclein pathology in models of Lewy body dementia and Parkinson’s disease. Researchers will test the therapy in preclinical models and use MRI-based markers to track brain changes and treatment response. The goal is to move toward therapies that not only ease symptoms but also slow disease progression, with measurable brain changes guiding the process. The work is designed to create a foundation for applying immunomodulatory treatments like MCT to Lewy body disorders and related conditions in people.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the therapy could slow disease progression and provide better tools to monitor treatment effects.
How similar studies have gone: Preclinical studies have shown reduced alpha-synuclein pathology with similar immunomodulatory approaches in models.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vedam-Mai, Vinata — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Vedam-Mai, Vinata
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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.