Dopamine's role in brain connections for movement and learning
Dopamine modulation of synaptic plasticity and integration in the striatum
['FUNDING_R01'] · STANFORD UNIVERSITY · NIH-11124015
This project explores how dopamine affects brain connections in a region called the striatum, which is important for learning and performing movements, especially in conditions like Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | STANFORD UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (STANFORD, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11124015 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Our brains constantly learn new movements, from walking to writing, and this involves complex communication between different brain regions. This project looks closely at how the motor cortex and a deep brain area called the striatum work together to make these movements happen. We want to understand how dopamine, a key brain chemical, influences the strength and flexibility of these connections, known as synaptic plasticity. By understanding these processes, we hope to uncover why movement disorders like Parkinson's disease disrupt these vital brain circuits.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is not directly recruiting patients but aims to help individuals living with degenerative neurologic disorders, particularly those affecting motor control like Parkinson's disease.
Not a fit: Patients without conditions affecting motor learning or basal ganglia function are unlikely to directly benefit from this specific foundational research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a better understanding of the brain mechanisms behind movement disorders, potentially guiding the development of new treatments for conditions like Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of the striatum in motor learning is known, direct evidence of how specific brain connections change during learning in living organisms, especially concerning dopamine, is still being uncovered.
Where this research is happening
STANFORD, UNITED STATES
- STANFORD UNIVERSITY — STANFORD, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: DING, JUN — STANFORD UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: DING, JUN
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.
Conditions: Degenerative Neurologic Disorders, Disease