Understanding how alpha-synuclein affects cell membranes in Parkinson's disease
Official title: PROVIDE NEW INSIGHTS IN ALPHA-SYNUCLEIN INDUCED CELL MEMBRANE DISRUPTION USING SCANNING ION CONDUCTANCE MICROSCOPY AND SURFACE PLASMON RESONANCE MICROSCOPY
Funded at California State University Los Angeles · NIH-10974782 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a protein called alpha-synuclein, which is connected to Parkinson's disease, affects brain cells and how things like tiny plastic particles in the environment might make it worse, all to find new ways to help people with Parkinson's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | California State University Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project start | September 30, 2020 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $438,000 |
| NIH project number | 2R15NS120157-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10974782 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or those at risk due to genetic or environmental factors.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative disorders unrelated to alpha-synuclein may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of alpha-synuclein, a protein linked to Parkinson's disease, in disrupting neuronal cell membranes. Using advanced imaging techniques like scanning ion conductance microscopy and surface plasmon resonance microscopy, the study aims to explore how different forms of alpha-synuclein, particularly its phosphorylated variant, impact neuronal health. The research will also examine the effects of environmental toxins, such as nanoplastics, on alpha-synuclein aggregation and its interactions with cell membranes. By deepening our understanding of these mechanisms, the research seeks to identify potential therapeutic targets for Parkinson's disease.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding alpha-synuclein's role in neurodegeneration, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
California State University Los Angeles
Los Angeles, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Yixian — California State University Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Wang, Yixian
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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.