Understanding Inflammation in Brain Cell Loss
Anti-inflammatory signals and neurodegeneration
['FUNDING_R01'] · SAN DIEGO BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · NIH-11124896
This research explores how certain immune signals in the brain might contribute to the loss of brain cells in conditions like Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | SAN DIEGO BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124896 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our brain cells are affected by signals from the immune system, which can impact their health and survival. We've found that a specific immune receptor, called IL-13Rα1/IL-4Rα, influences the survival of important brain cells that are lost in Parkinson's disease. We believe that a molecule called IL-13, produced during brain inflammation, might damage these cells by triggering a specific type of cell death. This work aims to uncover the exact ways these immune signals cause harm, using models of neurodegenerative diseases.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for patients interested in the underlying causes of neurodegenerative diseases, particularly Parkinson's disease and related conditions involving alpha-synucleinopathy.
Not a fit: Patients seeking immediate new treatments or direct clinical intervention would not directly benefit from this early-stage laboratory research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to new ways to protect brain cells and potentially slow down neurodegeneration in people with conditions like Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: This research builds upon existing evidence that neuroimmune signals affect brain cell viability, but the specific mechanisms and therapeutic targets being explored are novel.
Where this research is happening
SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES
- SAN DIEGO BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE — SAN DIEGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: CONTI, BRUNO — SAN DIEGO BIOMEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE
- Study coordinator: CONTI, BRUNO
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.
Conditions: Alzheimer disease dementia, Alzheimer syndrome, Alzheimer's Disease