Cerebellum-targeted deep brain stimulation for severe movement problems and spasticity in cerebral palsy
Cerebellar deep brain stimulation for severe combined movement disorders and spasticity in children and young adults with cerebral palsy
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11322723
This project tests whether implanted electrodes that stimulate a cerebellar motor area can reduce severe involuntary movements and muscle tightness in children and young adults with cerebral palsy.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11322723 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
You would undergo surgery to place electrodes on both sides of a motor area in the cerebellum (dorsal dentate nucleus) with the deepest contact in the superior cerebellar peduncle. The team will use modern brain imaging and stimulation hardware to guide placement and program the device. Ten children and young adults with disabling dystonia and spasticity will be treated and followed for clinical changes and safety. The study focuses on people whose symptoms have not been adequately relieved by medications or standard injections.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Children and young adults with cerebral palsy who have severe, disabling dystonia and/or spasticity that has not responded to medications or neurotoxin injections would be the ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with mild symptoms, progressive neurodegenerative disorders, or who are not candidates for brain surgery or implanted hardware may not benefit from this approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could reduce dystonia and spasticity and improve daily function and comfort for people with severe cerebral palsy.
How similar studies have performed: Small prior reports of cerebellar stimulation for CP-related movement problems have shown promise but the approach remains experimental and not yet proven in larger trials.
Where this research is happening
SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO — SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SAN LUCIANO, MARTA — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO
- Study coordinator: SAN LUCIANO, MARTA
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 below.