Understanding how specific brain cells control movement and are affected in Parkinson's disease
Official title: Investigation of Pallidal Neurons in Motor Inhibition
Funded at Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10847969 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how certain brain cells in a part of the brain that helps control movement work together, especially in people with Parkinson's disease, to better understand why movement can be difficult and to help find new ways to improve treatment.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Northwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | February 20, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $601,348 |
| NIH project number | 1R01NS136123-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10847969 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults aged 21 and older who are diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or exhibit motor control issues.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with movement disorders unrelated to the basal ganglia or those under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of neurons in the external globus pallidus, a part of the brain involved in movement control, particularly in the context of Parkinson's disease. By using advanced genetic tools and techniques, the researchers aim to identify different types of neurons in this area and how they interact to regulate motor activity. The study will involve examining these neurons in both healthy and Parkinson's disease models to uncover the mechanisms that lead to movement difficulties. This research could provide valuable insights into how motor function is disrupted in Parkinson's disease and potentially guide future treatments.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved understanding and treatment options for patients with Parkinson's disease, particularly in managing motor symptoms.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the basal ganglia's role in movement, suggesting that this approach could yield significant insights.
Where this research is happening
-
Northwestern University at Chicago
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Chan, Savio — Northwestern University at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Chan, Savio
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
High-intensity exercise as a treatment for Parkinson's disease
This study is looking at whether doing high-intensity endurance exercise can help people who have just been diagnosed with Parkinson's disease feel better and slow down their symptoms, especially since current medications don't always do the trick.
-
Software to quickly assess organ dose after radionuclide exposure
This study is creating a helpful software tool that quickly calculates how much radiation your organs absorb after you've taken certain radioactive substances, so you can get better care and treatment based on your individual needs.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for better ways to improve your care and treatment, so you can get more personalized options that work best for you.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for new ways to improve care and treatment for patients, and if you join, you might help test some exciting new methods that could lead to better health for everyone.
-
Investigating innovative approaches to improve health outcomes.
This study is looking for ways to improve care and treatment for patients like you, by trying out new methods that could help manage your health better.
-
Investigating core biological processes
This study is all about exploring important biological processes that affect our health, and it invites patients to help discover new ways to improve care for everyone.
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.