Understanding how cell processes manage protein balance in neurons from Parkinson's disease patients.
Official title: The role of ER-phagy in maintaining protein homeostasis in PD patient derived neurons.
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-11001963 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how brain cells from people with Parkinson's disease manage proteins, especially one called alpha-synuclein, to understand how problems in this process might affect the disease and help find better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2023 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $48,974 |
| NIH project number | 5F31NS131055-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11001963 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, particularly those with genetic mutations related to the condition.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or those with unrelated neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms by which neurons derived from patients with Parkinson's disease maintain protein balance, particularly focusing on the role of a protein called alpha-synuclein. The study utilizes neurons created from induced pluripotent stem cells (iPSCs) to observe how these cells handle misfolded proteins and the impact of genetic factors on this process. By examining the autophagy-lysosomal pathway, the research aims to uncover how disruptions in these cellular processes contribute to the progression of Parkinson's disease. Patients may be involved in providing iPSCs for the study, which could lead to insights into personalized treatment approaches.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for treating or managing Parkinson's disease by improving protein homeostasis in affected neurons.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding protein homeostasis in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Zalon, Annie — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Zalon, Annie
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.