NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

New deep brain stimulation technique for treating essential tremor

Official title: Thalamic Coordinated Reset Deep Brain Stimulation for Upper Extremity Essential Tremor: Proof of Principle Study

Funded at University of Minnesota · NIH-11223028 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing a new way to use deep brain stimulation to help people with essential tremor by using a gentler method that aims to reduce side effects, so you can feel better without as many complications.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project startJuly 15, 2023
Project endDecember 31, 2028
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$12,151
NIH project number3UH3NS125162-02S1
Project IDNIH-11223028 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with essential tremor who have not responded adequately to traditional treatments.

Less likely to help

Patients with essential tremor who are not candidates for deep brain stimulation or have other neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to deep brain stimulation (DBS) aimed at treating essential tremor, a condition affecting millions. The study focuses on a method called coordinated reset (CR) stimulation, which uses lower current amplitudes and alternates stimulation across multiple contacts in the brain to reduce side effects commonly associated with traditional DBS. By addressing abnormal synchronization in the brain's neuronal network, this technique aims to provide effective treatment while minimizing complications such as dysarthria and ataxia. Patients will be monitored for both immediate and long-term benefits from this innovative approach.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a safer and more effective treatment for essential tremor, improving quality of life for many patients.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with similar coordinated reset stimulation techniques in other neurological conditions, indicating potential for success in this application.

Where this research is happening

  • University of Minnesota
    Minneapolis, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Wang, Jing — University of Minnesota
  • Study coordinator: Wang, Jing

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.