Optimizing brain stimulation to control dopamine release.
Control of the time course of dopamine release through optimized electrical brain stimulation.
This study is looking at how using electrical stimulation in the brain can help control the release of dopamine, which is important for movement and decision-making, to find better treatments for conditions like Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and severe depression, so patients can feel better and improve their quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Arizona NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Tucson, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10795731 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how electrical stimulation of deep brain structures can be optimized to control the release of dopamine, a key neurotransmitter involved in learning, decision making, and motor control. By understanding the different patterns of dopamine release—fast (phasic) and slow (tonic)—the study aims to develop new methods for regulating these processes. This could lead to improved treatments for neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, and severe depression. Patients may benefit from insights into how these stimulation techniques can enhance their treatment outcomes.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with neurological disorders such as Parkinson's disease, epilepsy, or severe depression.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions unrelated to dopamine regulation or those who do not have neurological disorders may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for neurological disorders by improving the regulation of dopamine release.
How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promising results with electrical brain stimulation techniques, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
Tucson, United States
- University of Arizona — Tucson, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cowen, Stephen Leigh — University of Arizona
- Study coordinator: Cowen, Stephen Leigh
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.