Understanding the origins and effects of alpha-synuclein in Parkinson's disease
Official title: Determining the Origin and Pathogenicity of Plasma-Derived Alpha-SynucleinStrains
Funded at University of Pennsylvania · NIH-10985458 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a protein called alpha-synuclein in the blood of people with Parkinson's disease to understand how different types of this protein might affect the disease and help find new ways to treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project start | July 15, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $231,255 |
| NIH project number | 1K08NS133286-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985458 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, particularly those experiencing cognitive decline.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other neurodegenerative disorders that do not involve alpha-synuclein pathology may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of alpha-synuclein, a protein associated with Parkinson's disease, in the blood plasma of patients. By analyzing extracellular vesicles, which are tiny structures released by cells, the study aims to identify the tissue sources of different strains of alpha-synuclein found in the plasma. This could help clarify how these strains contribute to the progression of Parkinson's disease and may lead to the development of early therapies. The research employs advanced biochemical techniques to differentiate between various alpha-synuclein strains in patients with Parkinson's disease compared to other conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and more effective treatments for Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in identifying biomarkers related to alpha-synuclein, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pennsylvania
Philadelphia, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kannarkat, George T — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Kannarkat, George T
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.