NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

New methods to improve brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease treatment.

Official title: Circuit-specific, chemogenetic neuromodulation in nonhuman primates.

Funded at Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psych Res · NIH-10854940 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is exploring new ways to improve brain treatments for Parkinson's disease by using special techniques to target specific brain areas, with the hope of making therapies safer and more effective for people living with the condition.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNathan S. Kline Institute for Psych Res
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Orangeburg, United States)
Project startJune 15, 2023
Project endApril 30, 2026
Funding year2024
Award (this year)$1,108,413
NIH project number5UG3MH129381-02
Project IDNIH-10854940 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who may benefit from advanced neuromodulation therapies.

Less likely to help

Patients with conditions other than Parkinson's disease or those who are not suitable candidates for neuromodulation therapies may not receive benefits from this research.

What this research studies

This research aims to develop innovative neuromodulation techniques using chemogenetics in nonhuman primates to enhance the effectiveness of brain stimulation therapies for Parkinson's disease. By utilizing Designer Receptors Exclusively Activated by Designer Drugs (DREADDs), the study focuses on selectively targeting specific brain circuits involved in motor symptoms. The approach includes advanced methods for delivering these receptors into neurons and assessing their impact through imaging and behavioral evaluations. Ultimately, the goal is to translate these findings into safer and more effective treatments for patients with Parkinson's disease.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for Parkinson's disease, reducing the risks associated with current surgical options.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using chemogenetic approaches for neuromodulation, indicating potential for success in this novel application.

Where this research is happening

  • Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psych Res
    Orangeburg, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Schroeder, Charles E — Nathan S. Kline Institute for Psych Res
  • Study coordinator: Schroeder, Charles E

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.