Using brain cell signals to predict inflammation in Parkinson's disease

Using Peripheral Microglial Exosomes to predict brain inflammation in the human Parkinson’s brain

NIH-funded research Arizona State University-Tempe Campus · NIH-10931366

This study is looking at tiny particles from brain immune cells in the blood and spinal fluid of people with Parkinson's disease to see if they can help predict brain inflammation and understand how the disease progresses, which could lead to better treatments for you.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionArizona State University-Tempe Campus NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Tempe, United States)
Project IDNIH-10931366 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates whether microglial extracellular vesicles, which are tiny particles shed by brain immune cells, can be detected in the blood and cerebrospinal fluid of individuals with Parkinson's disease. By analyzing these vesicles, the study aims to develop a method for predicting brain inflammation associated with neurodegeneration. This could provide insights into the disease's progression and help tailor treatments for patients. The approach involves advanced techniques like RNA sequencing to characterize the vesicles and understand their role in inflammation.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who may be experiencing symptoms related to brain inflammation.

Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or those with other neurological conditions unrelated to inflammation may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a reliable method for monitoring brain inflammation in Parkinson's patients, potentially improving treatment strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using extracellular vesicles as biomarkers for various diseases, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights in the context of Parkinson's disease.

Where this research is happening

Tempe, 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.
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.