NIH-funded research R21 grant

Investigating how certain brain receptors affect cognitive issues in Parkinson's disease

Official title: The role of cortical nicotinic receptors in pathological brain oscillations in Parkinson's disease cognitive impairment

Funded at Johns Hopkins University · NIH-10774326 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at how certain brain receptors might be linked to thinking problems in people with Parkinson's disease, using special imaging and tests to better understand these connections and find new ways to help improve memory and thinking skills.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionJohns Hopkins University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Baltimore, United States)
Project startFebruary 15, 2023
Project endJanuary 31, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$204,688
NIH project number5R21NS128391-02
Project IDNIH-10774326 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who are experiencing cognitive impairment.

Less likely to help

Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not exhibit cognitive impairment may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research explores the role of α4β2 nicotinic cholinergic receptors in the brain and their connection to cognitive impairment in Parkinson's disease (PD). By using advanced imaging techniques and cognitive testing, the study aims to understand how changes in these receptors contribute to abnormal brain oscillations that affect cognitive functions. The research combines molecular imaging with intracranial recordings to gather detailed data on brain activity and receptor signaling. This approach may help identify new treatment targets for cognitive deficits in PD.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for cognitive impairment in patients with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of nicotinic receptors in cognitive functions, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

  • Johns Hopkins University
    Baltimore, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Mills, Kelly Alexander — Johns Hopkins University
  • Study coordinator: Mills, Kelly Alexander

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.