Role of inter-cellular communication in Parkinson’s disease

  • Research type

    Research Study

  • Full title

    Role on inter-cellular communication in Parkinson’s disease: brain derived extracellular vesicles signature in Parkinson’s patients compared to controls

  • IRAS ID

    336762

  • Contact name

    Mariaelena Repici

  • Contact email

    m.repici@aston.ac.uk

  • Sponsor organisation

    Aston University

  • Duration of Study in the UK

    4 years, 11 months, 30 days

  • Research summary

    Parkinson’s disease (PD) is the second most common neurodegenerative disease after Alzheimer’s. To date, available drugs can treat symptoms of PD but are not able to stop disease progression. The purpose of this study is to look at how cells communicate in Parkinson’s disease. We will examine the blood to look for extracellular vesicles. These are tiny bubbles made up of fats and other molecules that cells release into their surroundings. These bubbles carry messages and materials from one cell to another. Recent research has shown that they play an important role in the spreading of neurodegeneration (neuronal cell breakdown). Our research aims to identify differences in the composition of extracellular vesicles that come from the brain between healthy volunteers and Parkinson’s disease patients.\nBy identifying the make up of extracellular vesicles, we may identify new biomarkers (chemicals that can be measured to diagnose illnesses) as well as possible treatments for Parkinson’s disease.\n

  • REC name

    North West - Preston Research Ethics Committee

  • REC reference

    24/NW/0158

  • Date of REC Opinion

    31 May 2024

  • REC opinion

    Favourable Opinion