Understanding how myelination affects resilience to Lewy body disorders
Official title: Myelination and Resilience Against Limbic Alpha-Synucleinopathy
Funded at Duquesne University · NIH-10578480 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the protective covering of nerve cells might help the brain stay strong against Lewy body disorders, which involve harmful protein buildup, and it’s a great chance for pharmacy students at Duquesne University to learn while contributing to this important research.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R15 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duquesne University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | September 26, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2022 |
| Award (this year) | $447,461 |
| NIH project number | 1R15NS130532-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10578480 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at risk for or diagnosed with Lewy body disorders.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative diseases that do not involve Lewy body pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the relationship between myelination and resilience against Lewy body disorders, which are characterized by the accumulation of alpha-synuclein aggregates in the brain. The study uses a novel in vivo model to explore how unmyelinated neurons may be more vulnerable to these aggregates and how microglial cells influence myelination. By examining these mechanisms, the research aims to uncover potential protective factors that could enhance neuronal resilience. The project is designed to involve students from the School of Pharmacy at Duquesne University, providing a unique educational opportunity alongside scientific inquiry.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new strategies for protecting neurons in patients with Lewy body disorders.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of linking myelination to resilience in Lewy body disorders is novel, related research has shown promise in understanding neurodegenerative processes.
Where this research is happening
-
Duquesne University
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Leak, Rehana Khan — Duquesne University
- Study coordinator: Leak, Rehana Khan
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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.