Understanding Brain Control of Motivation in Parkinson's Disease
Deciphering Neuronal Control of Behavioral Initiation and Suppression
This research explores how specific brain areas affect motivation, like starting or stopping actions, for people living with Parkinson's disease.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11174495 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Many people with Parkinson's disease experience challenges with motivation, such as difficulty starting activities (apathy) or controlling impulses. Currently, there are no effective treatments for these symptoms, and some existing medications can even make them worse. This project aims to uncover how these motivational issues arise in the brain by studying specific brain networks. By understanding the precise roles of different brain cells and circuits, especially in an area called the globus pallidus, we hope to find new ways to help patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is for future patients with Parkinson's disease who experience difficulties with motivation, apathy, or impulsivity.
Not a fit: Patients whose Parkinson's symptoms do not include significant issues with motivation, apathy, or impulsivity may not directly benefit from this specific line of research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of new and effective treatments for apathy and impulsivity in people with Parkinson's disease.
How similar studies have performed: There are currently no effective treatments for the specific motivational symptoms addressed by this research, indicating a novel and much-needed approach.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts General Hospital — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ferenczi, Emily Anne — Massachusetts General Hospital
- Study coordinator: Ferenczi, Emily Anne
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.