Synthetic protein mimetics to treat Lewy Body Dementia
Official title: Synthetic protein mimetics as potential therapeutics for Lewy Body Dementia
Funded at University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) · NIH-11641877 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A new therapeutic approach using engineered protein-like molecules to block the harmful protein clumps that cause Lewy Body Dementia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Denver (Colorado Seminary) NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Denver, United States) |
| Project start | September 19, 2024 |
| Project end | February 28, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $99,999 |
| NIH project number | 3R61NS137824-03S1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11641877 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are people with Lewy Body Dementia or those at risk with similar pathology who may benefit from future trials.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with conditions not related to Lewy Body Dementia or those unable to participate in early-phase studies may not benefit.
What this research studies
This project aims to develop and optimize synthetic protein mimetics that mimic protein surfaces to prevent alpha-synuclein clumping and its spread in the brain. The work includes testing in cellular, neuronal, and worm (C. elegans) models, plus studies showing the compounds can cross the blood-brain barrier and do not appear toxic in mice. If successful, these molecules could slow or modify disease processes that lead to cognitive and motor symptoms. The research builds on a large library of versatile compounds and focuses on improving pharmaceutical properties for brain delivery.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the therapy could slow progression or lessen symptoms of Lewy Body Dementia by preventing harmful protein aggregation in the brain.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work shows that similar synthetic mimetics can interfere with protein aggregation in model systems, supporting feasibility of this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
Denver, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kumar, Sunil — University of Denver (Colorado Seminary)
- Study coordinator: Kumar, Sunil
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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.