Nerve-related bladder problems
Bladder Dysfunction and Dysregulation of Neurotransmission
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM · NIH-11212793
This work looks at how nerve proteins might cause bladder control problems in people with type 2 diabetes or Parkinson’s disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BOSTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11212793 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
They will study how a protein called alpha-synuclein and a motor protein (myosin 5a) interact with the cell skeleton to disrupt nerve signals in the bladder. The team will use laboratory tests, animal models, and tissue studies to see how these protein interactions affect neurotransmission and glucose-related processes in bladder cells. The goal is to trace the biochemical steps that lead to early bladder symptoms in diabetes and Parkinson’s disease so treatments can target the root cause. Findings may point to new targets for therapies beyond current symptom-focused drugs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with type 2 diabetes or Parkinson’s disease who have bladder control problems or other urinary symptoms would be the most relevant candidates for this research.
Not a fit: People whose bladder problems are caused by recent infections, structural urinary tract issues, or unrelated surgical injury may not benefit from this line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to treatments that fix the underlying nerve problem causing bladder symptoms rather than only masking symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: Alpha-synuclein is a well-known player in Parkinson’s disease, but applying its interaction with myosin 5a to explain bladder dysfunction is a new and largely untested idea.
Where this research is happening
BOSTON, UNITED STATES
- VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM — BOSTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SULLIVAN, MARYROSE P — VA BOSTON HEALTH CARE SYSTEM
- Study coordinator: SULLIVAN, MARYROSE P
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: Adult-Onset Diabetes Mellitus, Animal Disease Models