Understanding Brain Changes in Parkinson's Disease
Neurophysiological Mechanisms Underlying Parkinsonian Motor Signs
['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA · NIH-11135386
This research aims to understand how brain activity and connections change in Parkinson's disease, which could lead to better treatments for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11135386 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
We are looking closely at how brain cells and their connections change over time in a model of Parkinson's disease. By recording brain activity during rest and movement, both with and without medication, we hope to pinpoint the specific changes that cause symptoms. This detailed look at the brain's electrical signals will help us understand the disease's progression and how current treatments affect it. Our goal is to uncover new targets for therapies that could improve life for those with Parkinson's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease, especially those experiencing motor symptoms like bradykinesia or abnormal gait, are the ultimate beneficiaries of this foundational research.
Not a fit: Patients without Parkinson's disease or related motor conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to a deeper understanding of Parkinson's disease, paving the way for new and more effective treatments for motor symptoms.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of tracking brain changes progressively in this model is novel, previous studies have successfully used animal models to understand Parkinson's disease mechanisms.
Where this research is happening
MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES
- UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA — MINNEAPOLIS, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: VITEK, JERROLD L — UNIVERSITY OF MINNESOTA
- Study coordinator: VITEK, JERROLD L
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.