Understanding how immune cells affect Lewy body diseases
Elucidating the role of NK cells in Lewy body diseases
This study is looking at how certain immune cells, called natural killer cells, might help fight the buildup of a harmful protein in conditions like Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia, to see if they could lead to new ways to treat these diseases.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Georgia NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Athens, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11076201 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of natural killer (NK) cells in Lewy body diseases, such as Parkinson's disease and Lewy body dementia. By using a preclinical mouse model, the study examines how these immune cells respond to the accumulation of alpha-synuclein protein, which is linked to neuroinflammation and neurodegeneration. The researchers aim to determine whether NK cells can help clear harmful protein aggregates and how their activity correlates with disease severity in patients. This could provide insights into potential therapeutic strategies for managing these conditions.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Lewy body diseases, such as Parkinson's disease or Lewy body dementia.
Not a fit: Patients with Lewy body diseases who do not have significant immune system involvement or those with other unrelated neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that harness the immune system to slow down or prevent the progression of Lewy body diseases.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of NK cells in Lewy body diseases has not been extensively studied, there is emerging evidence suggesting that immune modulation could be beneficial in neurodegenerative disorders.
Where this research is happening
Athens, United States
- University of Georgia — Athens, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lee, Jae Kyung — University of Georgia
- Study coordinator: Lee, Jae Kyung
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 below.