Targeting specific brain cells to improve Parkinson's disease symptoms
Chemogenetic Inactivation of the Primate Internal Globus Pallidus as a treatment for Parkinsonism
This study is exploring a new way to help people with Parkinson's disease by using special techniques to adjust the activity of certain brain cells, which could improve movement without the side effects of current treatments, and it's being tested in monkeys first to see how well it works and if it's safe.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10908518 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a new treatment approach for Parkinson's disease by using chemogenetic techniques to selectively modulate the activity of specific neurons in the brain. By introducing artificial receptors into targeted neurons, researchers aim to reduce abnormal activity in the internal globus pallidus, a brain region involved in motor control. This method could potentially alleviate motor impairments associated with Parkinson's disease without the unwanted side effects of current medications and surgical treatments. The study will be conducted in rhesus monkeys to evaluate the effectiveness and safety of this innovative approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who experience significant motor impairments.
Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not respond to current treatments or have advanced stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more effective treatments for patients with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: Similar chemogenetic approaches have shown promise in preclinical studies, suggesting potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Atlanta, United States
- Emory University — Atlanta, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Galvan, Adriana — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Galvan, Adriana
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.