Understanding how specific immune cells affect gut diseases linked to neurodegeneration
Official title: Investigating the Role of Myenteric Macrophages in Enteric Synucleinopathy
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11091503 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain immune cells in the gut might affect the spread of harmful proteins that can lead to gut problems and possibly diseases like Parkinson's, with the hope of finding new ways to help people feel better and slow down disease progression.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | May 16, 2023 |
| Project end | March 15, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $49,270 |
| NIH project number | 5F30NS129283-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091503 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing gastrointestinal issues related to neurodegenerative diseases, particularly those with a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or related conditions.
✕Less likely to help
Patients without gastrointestinal symptoms or those not diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of myenteric macrophages, a type of immune cell in the gut, in the development of enteric synucleinopathy, which is associated with gastrointestinal dysfunction and may lead to neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson's. The study aims to identify how these macrophages influence the spread of misfolded proteins in the gut and their potential impact on the nervous system. By using a mouse model, researchers will explore the cellular processes involved, which could lead to new therapeutic strategies for preventing disease progression and alleviating symptoms. Patients may benefit from insights gained about the relationship between gut health and neurodegenerative disorders.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve gastrointestinal symptoms and potentially slow the progression of neurodegenerative diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other research has shown promise in understanding the role of immune cells in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Mackie, Phillip — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Mackie, Phillip
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.