Understanding the role of a brain protein in Lewy Body Dementia and Alzheimer's disease
Official title: Distinguishing α-Synuclein S129 Phosphorylation in Health and Lewy Body Dementia
Funded at Brigham and Women's Hospital · NIH-11170616 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at a brain protein called α-synuclein to see how it changes in Lewy Body Dementia and Alzheimer's disease, with the hope of finding better ways to diagnose and treat these conditions for patients like you.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Brigham and Women's Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project start | August 15, 2024 |
| Project end | April 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $268,500 |
| NIH project number | 5R21AG085401-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11170616 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with Lewy Body Dementia, Alzheimer's disease, or related dementias.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other forms of dementia not related to Lewy Body or Alzheimer's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of α-synuclein, a protein in the brain, in conditions like Lewy Body Dementia and Alzheimer's disease. It focuses on distinguishing between normal and abnormal forms of a specific phosphorylated version of this protein, which is crucial for understanding the disease processes. By examining how this protein behaves under different conditions, the research aims to uncover insights that could lead to better treatments for these dementias. Patients may benefit from improved diagnostic markers and potential therapeutic interventions based on the findings.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better diagnostic tools and treatments for patients with Lewy Body Dementia and Alzheimer's disease.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding the role of α-synuclein in neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Brigham and Women's Hospital
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ramalingam, Nagendran — Brigham and Women's Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ramalingam, Nagendran
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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.