Eric Song Investigates Lymphatic Clearance to Stop Protein Spread
Researchers are targeting the dual pathways of misfolded protein aggregation and lymphatic clearance to intercept neurodegenerative decline and prevent the spread of disease.
The ASAP Grant Framework
Launched under the backing of the Aligning Science Across Parkinson’s (ASAP) grant program, the investigative framework shifts attention from incremental symptom management toward structural biological prevention. Funding from the initiative enables teams to execute complex, large-scale projects that standard funding mechanisms typically bypass.
According to research leadership, the grant structure encourages investigators to pursue bold experiments capable of producing substantial leaps in clinical understanding rather than minor, incremental changes. The initiative is specifically designed to support high-risk, high-reward neuroscience experiments.
Blocking Misfolded Alpha-Synuclein
The pathogenesis of Parkinson’s disease is heavily driven by the abnormal aggregation and propagation of alpha-synuclein within the central nervous system. In laboratories, investigative teams are developing mechanisms to prevent neurons from absorbing these misfolded protein structures.
By intercepting the uptake phase, scientists aim to interrupt the intercellular transmission of neurotoxic material that characterizes disease progression. Researchers are actively investigating methods to block nerve cells from taking up misfolded alpha-synuclein proteins linked to Parkinson’s disease pathogenesis.
Evaluating Lymphatic Drainage
While Strittmatter’s team focuses on blocking cellular absorption, a separate investigative arm led by Eric Song, MD, PhD, assistant professor of ophthalmology & visual sciences and of immunobiology, evaluates clearance mechanisms. Song’s laboratory investigates how lymphatic networks handle metabolic, inflammatory, and protein waste within organ systems.
This parallel research track examines how lymphatic vessels drain extracellular protein waste from organs before binding occurs. Lymphatics are specifically designed to clear protein waste from organs, according to Song, making lymphatic clearance of extracellular alpha-synuclein a critical variable in halting neurodegeneration.
The clearance paradigm introduces an alternative avenue for therapeutic intervention. Rather than solely defending individual neurons against incoming pathogens, enhancing the physiological capacity of lymphatic drainage systems provides an upstream barrier.
The combined strategy of restricting cellular uptake while simultaneously accelerating waste removal addresses both sides of the protein accumulation equation.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for educational and scientific communication purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider regarding any medical condition, diagnosis, or treatment plan.