Understanding GPNMB in Parkinson's and Related Conditions

The Role of GPNMB in Parkinson's Disease.

['FUNDING_R01'] · ALBERT EINSTEIN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE · NIH-11141762

This research explores how a specific gene, GPNMB, contributes to Parkinson's disease, Lewy Body Dementia, and Alzheimer's disease by affecting brain cells called microglia.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorALBERT EINSTEIN COLLEGE OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (BRONX, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11141762 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

We know that conditions like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's result from a mix of genetics, aging, and environment. This project aims to understand how certain genetic differences, identified through large-scale studies, might lead to these diseases by changing how genes like GPNMB work. Using advanced tools, we are looking at how GPNMB, which is active in brain immune cells called microglia, influences the brain's inflammatory response. Our goal is to uncover the specific ways these genetic changes contribute to the disease process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: This foundational research is not recruiting patients directly but is relevant to individuals with Parkinson's disease, Lewy Body Dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or a family history of these conditions.

Not a fit: Patients without neurodegenerative conditions like Parkinson's or Alzheimer's would not directly benefit from this specific research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to understand, prevent, or treat Parkinson's, Lewy Body Dementia, and Alzheimer's by targeting the GPNMB pathway.

How similar studies have performed: While the overall approach of linking genetic variants to disease mechanisms is ongoing, this project uses a novel CRISPR/Cas9-based platform and has promising pilot data suggesting a critical role for GPNMB.

Where this research is happening

BRONX, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease, Alzheimer's disease and related dementia

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.