Understanding how a protein called APT1 affects brain health in conditions like Parkinson's and Lewy body dementia
Defining The Substrates of Acyl Protein Thioesterase-1: Their Role in Modulating Alpha-Synuclein Toxicity
This project looks at how a specific protein in the brain, APT1, influences other proteins to find new ways to help people with Parkinson's disease and related dementias.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11117045 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many brain conditions like Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia are linked to a protein called alpha-synuclein, which can become harmful. Our bodies naturally modify proteins with fats, a process called palmitoylation, which is important for brain cell function. This project builds on earlier findings that suggest boosting palmitoylation by blocking another protein, APT1, might reduce the harmful effects of alpha-synuclein. We've seen promising results in lab models, where blocking APT1 improved symptoms similar to Parkinson's and dementia. Now, we want to identify exactly which brain proteins are affected by APT1, which is crucial for developing new treatments.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease, Parkinson disease dementia, or Dementia with Lewy bodies, or those at risk for these conditions, could potentially benefit from future treatments developed from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose conditions are not related to alpha-synuclein or the specific protein pathways being studied may not directly benefit from this particular line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new medications that target APT1 to slow down or stop the progression of Parkinson's disease, Lewy body dementia, and related conditions.
How similar studies have performed: Prior work by the principal investigator has shown promising results in animal models, indicating that targeting APT1 can improve symptoms related to these neurodegenerative diseases.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Brigham and Women's Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ho, Gary P. H. — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ho, Gary P. H.
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 below.