Understanding how alpha-synuclein affects brain circuits in Parkinson's disease and dementia
Official title: Reciprocal interactions between cortical circuit dysfunction and α-synuclein pathology
Funded at University of California Los Angeles · NIH-11010357 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-synuclein affects brain function in people with Parkinson's disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies, hoping to find new ways to help improve thinking and memory for those living with these conditions.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | February 1, 2023 |
| Project end | January 31, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $538,206 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS129517-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11010357 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or Dementia with Lewy Bodies who are experiencing cognitive impairment.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to alpha-synuclein pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between alpha-synuclein protein accumulation and the dysfunction of brain circuits in Parkinson's disease and Dementia with Lewy Bodies. The team will explore how the presence of this protein disrupts neuronal activity and how changes in brain activity may influence the accumulation of alpha-synuclein. By utilizing advanced imaging techniques, they aim to uncover the mechanisms behind cognitive impairment associated with these neurodegenerative diseases. The findings could lead to new insights into potential therapeutic targets for improving cognitive function in affected patients.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to the development of therapies that modify the progression of cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease and related dementias.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of alpha-synuclein in neurodegenerative diseases, but this specific approach is novel and aims to fill critical knowledge gaps.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zeiger, William Abel — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Zeiger, William Abel
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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.