Circuit-inspired DBS to restore basal ganglia function in Parkinson’s disease

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project builds on advances in deep brain stimulation by using circuit-inspired stimulation patterns that target specific neuron types in the basal ganglia. Researchers have shown in mouse models that these protocols can produce longer-lasting benefits than conventional DBS. The study plans to translate these findings to humans in collaboration with neurosurgeons to see if the same cell-type specific approach can improve motor control in people with Parkinson’s disease. It combines precise brain stimulation with physiological recordings to understand how the circuits recover after treatment.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Carnegie-Mellon University
  Pittsburgh, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Gittis, Aryn Hilary — Carnegie-Mellon University
• Study coordinator: Gittis, Aryn Hilary

Related research

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.