Investigating changes in brain activity related to Parkinson's disease
Corticosubthalamic Plasticity in the Parkinsonian State
This study is looking at how changes in a specific part of the brain might affect the symptoms of Parkinson's disease, using both animal models and early-stage patients to better understand how brain activity and dopamine loss are connected to the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10692859 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research explores how changes in the subthalamic nucleus, a key brain region, contribute to the symptoms of Parkinson's disease. By studying both animal models and human patients, the researchers aim to understand the relationship between neuronal activity, dopamine loss, and the progression of Parkinson's symptoms. The study employs advanced techniques such as optogenetics in monkeys and ultra-high field MRI in early-stage Parkinson's patients to gather detailed information about brain function and structure. This comprehensive approach may reveal new insights into the mechanisms underlying motor and non-motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals diagnosed with early-stage Parkinson's disease or those with varying degrees of dopamine loss.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced Parkinson's disease who are not eligible for the specific imaging or experimental procedures may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of the subthalamic nucleus in Parkinson's disease, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Smith, Yoland — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Smith, Yoland
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.