Understanding Brain Signals in Parkinson's Disease
Dopaminergic and Muscarinic Signaling in the Striatum
['FUNDING_R37'] · NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11127772
This work explores how specific brain signals contribute to Parkinson's disease symptoms and the side effects of common treatments, hoping to find new ways to help patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R37'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHICAGO, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11127772 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Parkinson's disease is a common condition that causes movement problems, and while current treatments like levodopa help many, they can lead to difficult side effects called dyskinesia over time. This project focuses on special brain cells, called cholinergic interneurons, in a part of the brain called the striatum, which we believe play a key role in both Parkinson's symptoms and these treatment side effects. By understanding how these cells communicate and what goes wrong in Parkinson's, we aim to uncover new targets for developing better medications. Our goal is to find therapies that are more effective and have fewer unwanted side effects for people living with Parkinson's.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This foundational research is relevant for patients with Parkinson's disease, especially those who experience or are at risk of developing levodopa-induced dyskinesia.
Not a fit: Patients without Parkinson's disease or related neurodegenerative conditions would not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to the development of new treatments for Parkinson's disease that better manage symptoms and reduce the debilitating side effects of current medications.
How similar studies have performed: While the role of cholinergic signaling in Parkinson's is recognized, this project proposes novel mechanisms and targets, building upon preliminary findings from the researchers.
Where this research is happening
CHICAGO, UNITED STATES
- NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY — CHICAGO, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: SURMEIER, DALTON JAMES — NORTHWESTERN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: SURMEIER, DALTON JAMES
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.
Conditions: Degenerative Neurologic Disorders