Using human dopamine cells to treat Parkinson's disease
Official title: Human Dopamine Grafts in Alpha-Synuclein Models of Parkinson Disease
Funded at Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research · NIH-10872173 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring whether using special brain cells made from human embryonic stem cells can help improve brain function in people with Parkinson's disease by replacing lost cells and reducing inflammation.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $629,095 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS126588-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10872173 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who are experiencing significant motor and cognitive symptoms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with early-stage Parkinson's disease or those who do not have significant neuronal loss may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the potential of using human embryonic stem cell-derived dopamine neurons to restore lost brain function in patients with Parkinson's disease. The approach involves grafting these neurons into the brain to counteract the effects of neuroinflammation and neuronal loss associated with the disease. By studying the brain's microenvironment, the research aims to enhance the survival and integration of these grafted cells, ultimately improving patient outcomes. The research builds on previous clinical trials and seeks to address the challenges faced in neuronal regeneration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapeutic options that regenerate lost neurons and restore brain function in Parkinson's disease patients.
How similar studies have gone: Previous clinical trials using stem cell-derived neurons have shown promise, indicating that this approach may lead to significant advancements in treating Parkinson's disease.
Where this research is happening
-
Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
New York, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tabar, Viviane — Sloan-Kettering Inst Can Research
- Study coordinator: Tabar, Viviane
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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.