Understanding how brain circuits affect movement in Parkinson's disease

Circuit Mechanisms of Bradykinesia in Mouse Models of Parkinson’s Disease

['FUNDING_R21'] · NEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE · NIH-11039982

This study is looking at how the loss of certain brain cells affects movement in people with Parkinson's disease, using mice to help find new ways to improve movement for patients.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R21']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorNEW YORK UNIVERSITY SCHOOL OF MEDICINE (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11039982 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates the mechanisms behind bradykinesia, a common symptom of Parkinson's disease characterized by slowed movements. Using mouse models, the study examines how the loss of dopamine neurons in the basal ganglia affects communication between different brain regions involved in movement. Researchers will employ advanced imaging techniques and optogenetic methods to manipulate and observe brain activity during motor tasks. The goal is to identify specific neural pathways that contribute to movement difficulties, which could lead to new treatment strategies for patients.

Who could benefit from this research

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

Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not exhibit bradykinesia or those with advanced stages of the disease may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to novel therapies that improve movement and quality of life for individuals with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in understanding brain circuits related to movement disorders, suggesting that this approach could yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, 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 →

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.