Investigating how certain brain cells affect movement in Parkinson's disease
Dopaminergic and Muscarinic Signaling in the Striatum
This study is looking at how certain brain cells called cholinergic interneurons affect movement and treatment side effects in people with Parkinson's disease, with the hope of finding better ways to help manage the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R37 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11113631 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the role of cholinergic interneurons in the striatum, a brain region involved in movement control, particularly in the context of Parkinson's disease (PD). The study aims to explore how these neurons contribute to both the motor symptoms of PD and the side effects of standard treatments, such as dyskinesia. By using advanced techniques like 2-photon imaging and electrophysiology, researchers will investigate the signaling pathways involved in these processes. The goal is to identify new therapeutic targets that could lead to better treatment options for patients suffering from PD.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease, particularly those experiencing motor symptoms and side effects from current treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who are in the early stages and not yet experiencing significant motor symptoms or side effects may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that alleviate motor symptoms of Parkinson's disease without the debilitating side effects associated with current treatments.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has indicated that targeting cholinergic signaling in the brain may improve treatment outcomes for Parkinson's disease, suggesting a promising avenue for further exploration.
Where this research is happening
Chicago, United States
- Northwestern University at Chicago — Chicago, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Surmeier, Dalton James — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Surmeier, Dalton James
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.