Investigating vocal problems linked to brainstem issues in early Parkinson's disease
Official title: Vocal dysfunction and vagally mediated brainstem pathology in prodromal Parkinson disease
Funded at University of Wisconsin-Madison · NIH-10996020 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how early signs of Parkinson's disease can affect the way people speak, focusing on the role of the vagus nerve and brainstem, and it uses rats to help understand these changes so we can find better ways to help those with vocal issues related to the condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Wisconsin-Madison NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Madison, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2024 |
| Project end | June 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $42,574 |
| NIH project number | 1F31DC022161-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10996020 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals showing early signs of Parkinson's disease, particularly those experiencing vocal difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with advanced Parkinson's disease or those without vocal dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding vocal deficits that occur in individuals with early signs of Parkinson's disease, particularly how these issues are related to the vagus nerve and brainstem function. Using a genetic model in rats, the study aims to explore the mechanisms behind these vocal problems, which can significantly affect quality of life. The research will compare vocal behaviors in affected rats to those in healthy controls to identify early changes that may indicate the onset of Parkinson's disease. The findings could provide insights into why current treatments are ineffective for these specific symptoms.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and potentially new treatments for vocal dysfunction in patients with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have gone: While research on vocal dysfunction in Parkinson's disease is ongoing, this specific approach using a genetic model is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Wisconsin-Madison
Madison, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Krasko, Maryann N — University of Wisconsin-Madison
- Study coordinator: Krasko, Maryann N
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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.