Research Period:
FY2025-FY2029
Principal Investigator

Taku Hatano
Professor, Department of Neurology, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine
This study aims to identify biomarkers (BMs) specific to α-synucleinopathies. For blood-based BMs, we will refine the serum α-synuclein (αS) seed amplification assay (SAA) by incorporating chemical and microfluidic approaches to establish a novel diagnostic technology. As an imaging BM, we will utilize the αS-PET developed by the National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology and examine its correlation with blood BMs, as well as with pathological analyses using patient-derived iPS cells and brain tissues. Furthermore, we will explore candidate drugs that suppress αS aggregation among existing compounds. By applying both blood and imaging BMs to evaluate these candidates, we aim to establish a foundation for the development of disease-modifying therapies.
Co-Investigator
Kei-ichi Ishikawa
Associate Professor, Juntendo University Graduate School of Medicine
Ayami Okuzumi
Associate Professor, Juntendo University Faculty of Medicine
Mao Fukuyama
Associate professor, Institute of Multidisciplinary Research for Advanced Materials, Tohoku University
Hironobu Endo
Senior Researcher, Advanced Neuroimaging Center, Institute for Quantum Medical Science, National Institutes for Quantum Science and Technology
Gen Matsumoto
Research Professor, Osaka Metropolitan University Graduate school of Medicine