Understanding how a protein pathway affects the spread of a harmful protein in brain diseases.
Official title: Decoding the BETA-arrestin2-LMBRD2 cascade in ALPHA-synuclein pathogenesis.
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10978601 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a specific protein pathway might affect the spread of a harmful protein linked to diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, and it aims to find new ways to help people with these conditions by understanding how these proteins behave in cells and animals.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | August 6, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $2,069,215 |
| NIH project number | 1RF1NS134638-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10978601 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Lewy body diseases, such as Parkinson's disease or dementia with Lewy bodies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with neurodegenerative diseases not related to alpha-synuclein pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of a specific protein pathway involving beta-arrestin2 and LMBRD2 in the spread of misfolded alpha-synuclein, a protein linked to several neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. By using both cellular and animal models, the researchers aim to uncover how this pathway influences the internalization and toxicity of alpha-synuclein aggregates. The study employs various techniques, including biochemical assays and behavioral tests, to explore the mechanisms behind these processes. Patients may benefit from insights gained into how these diseases progress and potential new therapeutic targets.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for preventing or treating neurodegenerative diseases associated with alpha-synuclein aggregation.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein aggregation in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Woo, Junga "Alexa" — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Woo, Junga "Alexa"
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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.