Understanding how specific brain circuits affect movement in Parkinson's disease
Dissecting functional subgroups and closed-loop circuits between the pedunculopontine nucleus and the basal ganglia
['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] · GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY · NIH-11044088
This study is looking at how a specific part of the brain affects movement in people with Parkinson's disease, to understand why some treatments help with walking while others don't, with the hope of finding better ways to improve movement for patients.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_FELLOWSHIP'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11044088 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of the pedunculopontine nucleus (PPN) in controlling movement, particularly in patients with Parkinson's disease. By examining how different parts of the PPN interact with the basal ganglia, the study aims to identify why some deep brain stimulation (DBS) treatments improve gait while others worsen it. The researchers will use advanced techniques like electrophysiology and calcium imaging to explore the properties of cholinergic neurons in the PPN, which are crucial for smooth movement. This work could lead to better-targeted therapies for movement disorders.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who experience gait impairments.
Not a fit: Patients with movement disorders not related to Parkinson's disease may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved deep brain stimulation techniques that enhance movement and reduce gait impairment in Parkinson's disease patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that targeted deep brain stimulation can improve movement in Parkinson's patients, indicating potential for success in this area.
Where this research is happening
WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES
- GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY — WASHINGTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: FALLAH, MICHEL — GEORGETOWN UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: FALLAH, MICHEL
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.