Mapping individual brain network patterns in Parkinson's disease

Precision-Mapping Functional Connectivity in Parkinson's Disease

['FUNDING_R01'] · WASHINGTON UNIVERSITY · NIH-11257279

This project uses detailed MRI brain scans to find individual brain network patterns linked to movement, thinking, and mood problems in people with Parkinson's disease.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorWASHINGTON UNIVERSITY (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11257279 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

You would get resting-state functional MRI scans that map how different parts of your brain communicate at the individual level. The researchers will compare each person's connectivity maps to their movement, gait, thinking, and mood symptoms and to biological signs of disease. They will apply new precision-mapping methods designed to pick up reliable, person-specific differences that group studies can miss. Over the project they will test whether these brain maps can predict who develops worsening cognitive or gait problems.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Adults diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who can safely undergo MRI scans and complete clinical assessments are the best candidates.

Not a fit: People without Parkinson's, those who cannot have MRI (for example due to certain implanted devices or severe claustrophobia), or those unable to travel to the study site are unlikely to benefit from participating.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this work could create a non-invasive brain marker to help personalize care and predict which patients may develop worse cognitive or walking problems.

How similar studies have performed: Prior group-level resting-state connectivity studies have found differences in Parkinson's patients, and newer precision-mapping approaches are promising but still need clinical validation.

Where this research is happening

SAINT LOUIS, UNITED STATES

Researchers

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 below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.