Targeting the brain changes that cause depression in Parkinson's
Identifying and targeting the neural basis of depression in Parkinson's disease
Using brain PET and MRI scans, researchers will look for specific synapse and network changes linked to depression in people with Parkinson's and try treatments aimed at those changes.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Yale University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New Haven, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11308687 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
If you join, you would get a PET scan that measures synaptic density and an fMRI that shows how brain areas connect. The team will compare people with Parkinson's and depression, people with Parkinson's without depression, people with major depression, and healthy volunteers to find what is unique to depression in Parkinson's. These imaging findings will point to specific brain circuits and synaptic losses that could be targeted by new treatments. The goal is to move from imaging discoveries to interventions that better treat depression in Parkinson's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Adults with Parkinson's disease who are currently experiencing depressive symptoms and can safely undergo PET and MRI scans are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People without Parkinson's, those with severe cognitive impairment, or anyone who cannot have PET/MRI scans (for example due to implanted devices or pregnancy) may not directly benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: Could lead to targeted treatments that relieve depression in Parkinson's and possibly slow related worsening of function.
How similar studies have performed: Prior imaging work has shown lower synaptic density in Parkinson's and links to depression, but combining PET and fMRI to find unique targets for depression in Parkinson's is a relatively new approach.
Where this research is happening
New Haven, United States
- Yale University — New Haven, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Holmes, Sophie — Yale University
- Study coordinator: Holmes, Sophie
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.