Selective D4 receptor drugs to reduce L‑DOPA–related involuntary movements in Parkinson's
Discovery and characterization of selective D4R antagonists and their evaluation in preclinical models of PD-LIDs
This project is developing drugs that block the D4 dopamine receptor to try to reduce involuntary movements caused by long‑term L‑DOPA treatment in people with Parkinson's.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Nebraska Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Omaha, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11128519 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Researchers have discovered several chemical compounds that selectively block the D4 dopamine receptor and have shown that a prototype reduced dyskinesia in mice. They will optimize these lead compounds to improve drug-like properties (ADME) and safety. Optimized candidates will be tested in established preclinical Parkinson's models and behavioral assays to measure effects on L‑DOPA–induced dyskinesias. Laboratory studies will also examine selectivity across other neurotransmitter receptors and early toxicology.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: People with Parkinson's disease who experience L‑DOPA–induced dyskinesias or who are on long‑term L‑DOPA therapy would be the intended clinical beneficiaries.
Not a fit: Because this work is preclinical and not yet tested in people, patients cannot access benefits now, and those not taking L‑DOPA or without dyskinesia are unlikely to benefit from these drugs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, these drugs could reduce or prevent L‑DOPA–induced dyskinesias and improve mobility and quality of life for people with Parkinson's.
How similar studies have performed: Early animal work with a prototype compound showed antidyskinetic effects in mouse models, but human effectiveness has not yet been tested.
Where this research is happening
Omaha, United States
- University of Nebraska Medical Center — Omaha, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hopkins, Corey R. — University of Nebraska Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Hopkins, Corey R.
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.