Monitoring alpha-synuclein changes in Parkinson's disease using advanced biosensors
Official title: Advanced multiplexing technologies with innovative Dual-Channel Dark-FRET biosensors for dynamic monitoring of alpha-synuclein pathophysiology: From cellular to in vivo models
Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11138719 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein related to Parkinson's Disease behaves in cells, using special tools to watch it in real-time, which could help us find new ways to understand and treat the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $184,136 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG089930-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11138719 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's Disease or related synucleinopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases not related to alpha-synuclein pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the accumulation and misfolding of alpha-synuclein, a protein linked to Parkinson's Disease and related disorders. By developing innovative biosensors that can dynamically monitor protein interactions in real-time, the study aims to improve our understanding of how these proteins behave in different cellular environments. The approach includes using advanced technologies to observe these processes in various models, from simple cell cultures to complex 3D organoids and live animal models. This could lead to better insights into the disease mechanisms and potential therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies for patients with Parkinson's Disease and related conditions.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced biosensing technologies for monitoring protein interactions, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Sachs, Jonathan N — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Sachs, Jonathan N
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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.