Understanding how specific immune cells affect gut diseases linked to neurodegeneration

Investigating the Role of Myenteric Macrophages in Enteric Synucleinopathy

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · NIH-11091503

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

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA (nih funded)
Locations1 site (GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11091503 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: 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.

Not a fit: Patients without gastrointestinal symptoms or those not diagnosed with neurodegenerative diseases may not benefit from this research.

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 performed: 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

GAINESVILLE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.