Understanding how a protein affects attention and alertness in brain disorders
Official title: Vulnerability of the ascending arousal network to alpha-synuclein pathology
Funded at University of Iowa · NIH-10979569 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how changes in thinking and attention happen in people with Lewy body disorders, like Parkinson's Disease dementia, by testing how a protein called alpha-synuclein affects the brain in animal models, with the hope of finding better treatments for those who experience these challenges.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Iowa NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Iowa City, United States) |
| Project start | September 18, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,234,905 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS134833-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10979569 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lewy body disorders, including Parkinson's Disease dementia and Dementia with Lewy Bodies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cognitive fluctuations not related to Lewy body disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the cognitive fluctuations experienced by patients with Lewy body disorders, which include conditions like Parkinson's Disease dementia and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. By using animal models, the study aims to explore how the protein alpha-synuclein affects brain circuits responsible for attention and arousal. The researchers will inject this protein into specific areas of the brain to observe its impact on cognitive functions. The ultimate goal is to uncover the mechanisms behind these fluctuations to develop targeted treatments for affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve cognitive stability and independence for patients with Lewy body disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of this research is novel, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the effects of alpha-synuclein in related conditions.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Iowa
Iowa City, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Aldridge, Georgina — University of Iowa
- Study coordinator: Aldridge, Georgina
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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.