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 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 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-11223028 on NIH RePORTER |
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.
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 traditional treatments.
Not a fit: Patients with essential tremor who are not candidates for deep brain stimulation or have other neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.
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 performed: 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
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.