Understanding how a protein affects mitochondria in Parkinson's disease
Official title: Isolating region specific α-syn-mediated mechanisms in mitochondrial function in vivo
Funded at State University of New York at Buffalo · NIH-10809994 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called α-synuclein affects the energy-producing parts of our cells, which could help us understand more about Parkinson's disease and lead to better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R03 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | State University of New York at Buffalo NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Amherst, United States) |
| Project start | September 7, 2023 |
| Project end | November 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2023 |
| Award (this year) | $158,379 |
| NIH project number | 1R03NS132074-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10809994 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or those at risk due to genetic factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with Parkinson's disease caused by non-genetic factors or those without any neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a protein called α-synuclein in the functioning of mitochondria, which are crucial for energy production in cells. By using specially modified animals, the researchers aim to differentiate between the normal and abnormal effects of this protein on mitochondrial health. The study seeks to uncover how these mechanisms contribute to Parkinson's disease, potentially leading to new insights into its causes and progression. Patients may benefit from a better understanding of the disease's underlying biology, which could inform future treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for Parkinson's disease by targeting mitochondrial dysfunction.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding mitochondrial dysfunction in Parkinson's disease, but this specific approach is novel.
Where this research is happening
-
State University of New York at Buffalo
Amherst, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Gunawardena, Shermali — State University of New York at Buffalo
- Study coordinator: Gunawardena, Shermali
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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.