Understanding how cholinergic deficits affect movement and balance in Parkinson's disease
Project I: Evolution of cholinergic deficits within multisensory, cognitive, and motor integration brain regions and development of PIGD features in PwP
This study is looking at how problems with a specific part of the brain might cause balance and walking issues in people with Parkinson's disease, and it aims to help us understand how these issues affect their ability to stay steady and move around safely.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10931694 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of cholinergic system dysfunctions in causing postural instability and gait difficulties in individuals with Parkinson's disease. By using a specialized imaging technique to assess cholinergic terminal density in key brain regions, the study aims to identify common deficits that contribute to falls and freezing of gait. The research focuses on understanding how these deficits impact the integration of attention and motor functions, which are crucial for maintaining balance and mobility. Patients may be monitored over time to observe changes in their symptoms and brain function.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who experience postural instability and gait difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients with Parkinson's disease who do not exhibit gait or balance issues may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for gait and balance issues in Parkinson's disease, enhancing patients' quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding cholinergic deficits in Parkinson's disease, indicating that this approach may yield valuable insights.
Where this research is happening
Ann Arbor, United States
- University of Michigan at Ann Arbor — Ann Arbor, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Bohnen, Nicolaas Ida — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Bohnen, Nicolaas Ida
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.