Investigating brain changes in Parkinson's disease using advanced imaging techniques
In vivo synaptic and dopamine transporter imaging in Parkinson's disease
This study is looking at how Parkinson's disease affects the brain by using special scans to see changes in brain connections and dopamine levels, and it's for people with Parkinson's who want to help researchers find better ways to diagnose and track the disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10831541 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the changes in brain synapses and dopamine transporters in patients with Parkinson's disease through advanced imaging techniques. Using positron emission tomography (PET) with new tracers, the study will analyze brain scans of 60 participants at different stages of the disease to identify patterns of synaptic deficits. The research aims to track these changes over time to better understand the progression of Parkinson's disease and how it affects brain function. By comparing different imaging results, the study seeks to develop more effective biomarkers for diagnosing and monitoring the disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease at various stages.
Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who are not within the specified age range or who are in advanced stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved diagnostic tools and therapies for patients with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using advanced imaging techniques to study brain changes in neurodegenerative diseases, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Matuskey, David a — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Matuskey, David a
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.