Midbrain circuits that drive motivation and movement
Substantia nigra circuits in instrumental action
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO · NIH-11182545
Researchers are looking at specific midbrain dopamine circuits to understand changes that cause movement problems and low motivation in Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11182545 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This project will map how different dopamine neurons in the substantia nigra and their inputs control motivated actions like choosing and working for rewards. Using laboratory models, researchers will trace specific circuit connections and manipulate them with precise stimulation to see how behavior changes. They will measure effort-based choices and movement vigor to link circuit activity to motivation and motor function. Findings aim to reveal which pathways are vulnerable in Parkinson's disease and which might be targeted by future therapies.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: The project does not currently enroll patients; however, people with Parkinson's disease who experience slowness, apathy, or effort-related decline could be candidates for future trials informed by this work.
Not a fit: People without Parkinson's disease or whose symptoms are unrelated to dopamine-driven motivation are unlikely to receive direct benefit from this basic science project.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could point to more precise brain circuit targets for future treatments to improve movement and motivation in people with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Prior animal studies and clinical approaches like deep brain stimulation show that changing basal ganglia circuits can alter movement and motivation, but dissecting specific nigrostriatal dopamine subtypes is a newer and less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO — LA JOLLA, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: HOLLON, NICK GARBER — UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN DIEGO
- Study coordinator: HOLLON, NICK GARBER
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.