Understanding decision-making in Parkinson's disease using brain stimulation

Identifying the neural mechanisms of goal-directed decision-making in Parkinson's disease using closed-loop deep brain stimulation

['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO · NIH-11035120

This study is looking at how brain signals affect decision-making in people with Parkinson's disease, especially when it comes to motivation, and aims to find ways to improve their choices and quality of life using a special brain stimulation technique.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA, SAN FRANCISCO (nih funded)
Locations1 site (SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11035120 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how brain signals influence decision-making in individuals with Parkinson's disease, particularly focusing on motivation deficits that affect their quality of life. By using closed-loop deep brain stimulation, the study aims to identify specific neural mechanisms that control goal-directed choices. The researchers will analyze brain activity patterns, particularly in the basal ganglia, to understand how these signals can be manipulated to improve decision-making. The ultimate goal is to develop new therapies that can enhance motivation and decision-making abilities in patients.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who experience motivation deficits.

Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not exhibit motivation deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatments that improve motivation and decision-making in patients with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain stimulation techniques to influence decision-making, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

SAN FRANCISCO, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Behavior Disorders, behavioral disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.