Understanding how the LRRK2 protein is involved in diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's

Molecular Mechanism of the Parkinson's Disease-associated protein LRRK2

NIH-funded research Indiana University Indianapolis · NIH-11089527

This study is looking at a protein called LRRK2, which is connected to diseases like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, to better understand how changes in this protein might affect these conditions and help patients in the future.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionIndiana University Indianapolis NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Indianapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11089527 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the LRRK2 protein, which is linked to several diseases including Parkinson's and Alzheimer's. By using advanced techniques like cryo-electron microscopy and X-ray crystallography, the study aims to uncover the molecular mechanisms and structural changes of LRRK2 caused by mutations. This could help in understanding how these mutations affect the protein's function and contribute to disease progression. Patients may benefit from insights gained about LRRK2's role in their conditions.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or Alzheimer's disease, particularly those with known LRRK2 mutations.

Not a fit: Patients without any genetic mutations in the LRRK2 gene or those with unrelated neurodegenerative conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic strategies for treating diseases associated with LRRK2 mutations.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of LRRK2 in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating that this approach has potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Indianapolis, 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.
Conditions Alzheimer disease dementiaAlzheimer syndromeAlzheimer's Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.