Understanding how a protein spreads from the gut to the brain in Parkinson's disease

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms by which α-synuclein, a protein associated with Parkinson's disease, spreads from the gastrointestinal tract to the brain. Using the model organism C. elegans, the study aims to create new models that can help identify how this protein aggregation leads to neurodegeneration and behavioral changes. By mapping the spread of α-synuclein and examining different neuronal cell types, the research seeks to uncover the underlying processes that contribute to the disease. This approach allows for high-throughput screening to accelerate the discovery of potential therapeutic targets.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Augusta University
  Augusta, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Mor, Danielle Emille — Augusta University
• Study coordinator: Mor, Danielle Emille

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

• Gut-brain clues in Parkinson’s disease: supplement to a large registry

  A plant-wide supplement to an NIH program will enroll people with Parkinson’s, with and without GI symptoms, plus healthy controls, to study how gut function, brain signals, and sleep rhythms relate to Parkinson’s symptoms.

  NIH research Columbia University Health Sciences · New York, United States · NIH-11612995

• Gut-brain connections in Parkinson’s disease: how the gut and environment shape symptoms

  A Mayo Clinic team is studying how gut problems, environmental factors, and genetics together influence Parkinson’s disease and its GI symptoms to find biomarkers and better understanding of the disease.

  NIH research Mayo Clinic Rochester · Rochester, United States · NIH-11596497

• Gut-brain communication in Parkinson’s disease for better symptoms and daily life

  This project enrolls people with Parkinson’s disease and healthy controls to build a big registry and study how gut function, brain signals, sleep, and circadian rhythms relate to PD symptoms.

  NIH research Columbia University Health Sciences · New York, United States · NIH-11593798

• Gut microbiome and Parkinson's disease: how gut bugs relate to symptoms and progression

  A multi-year study will look at gut bacteria and related markers in people with Parkinson’s disease to understand how the gut-brain connection may influence symptoms and progression.

  NIH research University of Chicago · Chicago, United States · NIH-11583671

• Gut-Brain Axis in Parkinson’s Disease: biomarkers and procedures to track progression

  A patient-focused program to study how gut health and the brain interact in Parkinson’s disease using biomarkers and clinical procedures.

  NIH research Rush University Medical Center · Chicago, United States · NIH-11582685

• Understanding posture and movement in Parkinson’s patients to reduce falls

  A study using wearable sensors to track real-world balance and movement in people with Parkinson’s disease to help prevent falls.

  NIH research Minneapolis VA Medical Center · Minneapolis, United States · NIH-11538979

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.