Targeting harmful proteins in the brain to improve Parkinson's disease diagnosis and treatment
Official title: CSF Oligomeric α-synuclein targeted nano scavengers as a Parkinson's disease theranostic
Funded at Baylor College of Medicine · NIH-11073370 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a new way to help people with Parkinson's disease by using tiny particles to remove harmful proteins from their brain fluid, which could lead to better treatments and ways to track how the disease is changing.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Baylor College of Medicine NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Houston, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $799,127 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS137633-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11073370 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or related synucleinopathies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia or neurodegenerative diseases not related to alpha-synuclein may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing nano scavengers that can target and remove oligomeric alpha-synuclein proteins from the cerebrospinal fluid of patients with Parkinson's disease. By utilizing advanced liposome technology, the study aims to enhance the delivery of therapeutic agents across the blood-brain barrier, potentially leading to improved diagnostic tools and treatment options. The approach is based on the understanding that elevated levels of these proteins are linked to the progression of Parkinson's and related disorders. Patients may be monitored for changes in their condition through innovative imaging techniques.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic methods and disease-modifying treatments for Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in targeting amyloid-beta in Alzheimer's disease, suggesting that similar approaches may be effective for Parkinson's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Baylor College of Medicine
Houston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tanifum, Eric — Baylor College of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Tanifum, Eric
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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.