New deep brain stimulation technique for treating essential tremor
Thalamic Coordinated Reset Deep Brain Stimulation for Upper Extremity Essential Tremor: Proof of Principle Study
This study is testing a new way to help people with essential tremor by using a special brain stimulation technique that aims to reduce shaking while causing fewer side effects, making it a friendlier option for managing their condition.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Minnesota NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Minneapolis, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10886836 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel deep brain stimulation technique called Coordinated Reset (CR) stimulation for patients with essential tremor, a condition that causes involuntary shaking. The study aims to reduce side effects associated with traditional stimulation methods by using lower current amplitudes and alternating stimulation across multiple contacts in the brain. By targeting the cerebello-thalamo-cortical network, this approach seeks to minimize unwanted effects like dysarthria and ataxia while providing effective tremor relief. Patients will be monitored for both immediate and long-term benefits from this innovative treatment.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with essential tremor who have not responded adequately to conventional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders or those who do not have essential tremor may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective treatment option for patients suffering from essential tremor.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar deep brain stimulation techniques in other movement disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Minneapolis, United States
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wang, Jing — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Wang, Jing
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.