Understanding how brain pathways affect movement in Parkinson's disease

Characterizing the pathophysiological role of the pallido-thalamocortical motor pathway in Parkinson's disease

NIH-funded research University of Minnesota · NIH-11004633

This study is looking at how certain brain pathways affect movement problems in people with Parkinson's disease, especially focusing on how these pathways work together during movement, to help improve treatments like deep brain stimulation.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of Minnesota NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Minneapolis, United States)
Project IDNIH-11004633 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the role of specific brain pathways in the development of motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease, particularly focusing on the basal ganglia thalamocortical circuit. By examining the synchronization of neural activity in these pathways, the study aims to uncover how these changes relate to the severity of symptoms like bradykinesia. The research will utilize advanced techniques to analyze brain activity and its modulation during movement, potentially leading to improved deep brain stimulation strategies. Patients may be involved in assessments that help clarify the relationship between brain activity and motor function.

Who could benefit from this research

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

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

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatments for managing motor symptoms in Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding brain pathways in Parkinson's disease, but this specific approach is novel and aims to provide deeper insights.

Where this research is happening

Minneapolis, 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.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.