Measuring brain proteins to understand essential tremor
Positron Emission Tomography (PET)-Derived Measurement of Brain Synaptic Vesicle Glycoprotein 2A (SV2A) – a Potential Biomarker in Patients with Essential Tremor
This study is looking at how a special brain protein can help doctors better understand and track essential tremor, so they can improve diagnosis and treatment for people living with this condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ut Southwestern Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Dallas, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11072936 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of positron emission tomography (PET) to measure a specific brain protein, synaptic vesicle glycoprotein 2A (SV2A), in patients with essential tremor (ET). The study aims to determine if changes in SV2A levels can serve as a biomarker for diagnosing ET and tracking its progression. By comparing SV2A levels in individuals with ET to those in matched controls, the researchers hope to establish a reliable method for assessing the disease. This could lead to improved diagnostic tools and better monitoring of treatment effects for patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with essential tremor who are willing to participate in PET imaging assessments.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders or those without a diagnosis of essential tremor may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new diagnostic tool for essential tremor, allowing for earlier detection and better management of the condition.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using PET imaging for other neurodegenerative diseases, suggesting potential success for this novel approach in essential tremor.
Where this research is happening
Dallas, United States
- Ut Southwestern Medical Center — Dallas, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Louis, Elan D — Ut Southwestern Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Louis, Elan D
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.