Creation of candidate glucocerebrosidase PET imaging agents
Mutations in the enzyme glucocerebrosidase (GBA1) are the most common genetic risk factor for development of Parkinsons disease (PD). PD is characterized by the buildup of abnormal protein deposits in the brain, followed by progressive loss of neurons and behavioural symptoms. Numerous studies have noted a correlation between reduced GBA1 activity and increased levels of these abnormal protein deposits in the brain, but the relationship remains poorly understood. The aim of this project is to create an inhibitor that can enter the brain and be used to determine GBA1 in the brain. The success of this project may lead to a better diagnostic agent for PD.
Intern:
Sachin Kandalkar
Faculty Supervisor:
Andrew Bennet
Province:
British Columbia
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