Understanding how a protein involved in Alzheimer's disease is regulated during brain activity

Polo-like-kinase-2-dependent α-Synuclein Serine-129 Phosphorylation: a Physiological RoleDuring Synaptic Activity

NIH-funded research Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-10698736

This study is looking at a protein called alpha-synuclein and how changes to it might affect brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's, with the hope of finding new ways to help patients feel better.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionBrigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10698736 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of a protein called alpha-synuclein (αS) in brain diseases like Alzheimer's and Parkinson's. It focuses on how this protein is modified during synaptic activity, particularly through a process called phosphorylation. By studying the mechanisms that regulate this modification, the research aims to uncover how to maintain normal αS function and potentially develop new treatments for related diseases. Patients may benefit from insights that could lead to disease-modifying therapies.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease or related dementias.

Not a fit: Patients with other forms of dementia not related to synucleinopathies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating Alzheimer's disease and related dementias by restoring normal protein function.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in understanding the role of αS in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndrome
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.