Using existing treatments to lower the risk of Parkinson's disease.
Official title: Repurposing Existing Therapies for Parkinson's Disease Risk and Phenoconversion
Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-11036331 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how some existing treatments for inflammation and autoimmune diseases might help lower the chances of developing Parkinson's disease, especially for people who have early symptoms but haven't been diagnosed yet. If you have an autoimmune condition, your participation could help us find ways to prevent or delay Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Johns Hopkins University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Baltimore, United States) |
| Project start | February 15, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $286,563 |
| NIH project number | 5R21NS136978-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11036331 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for participation include individuals with autoimmune disorders or those experiencing early symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who are already diagnosed with advanced Parkinson's disease may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how existing therapies, particularly those targeting inflammation and autoimmune conditions, can be repurposed to reduce the risk of developing Parkinson's disease (PD). It focuses on understanding the prodromal phase of PD, where individuals may experience early, non-specific symptoms before a formal diagnosis. By examining the relationship between chronic inflammation and PD risk, the study aims to identify potential preventive strategies that could delay or prevent the onset of the disease. Patients with autoimmune disorders may be particularly relevant to this research, as certain treatments for these conditions may influence PD risk.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new preventive strategies for Parkinson's disease, potentially reducing the incidence and severity of the condition.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in repurposing therapies for other neurological conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Fitzgerald, Kathryn C. — Johns Hopkins University
- Study coordinator: Fitzgerald, Kathryn C.
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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.