Understanding the causes of freezing of gait in Parkinson's disease using advanced technology
Leveraging invasive recordings and immersive virtual reality to characterize freezing of gait mechanisms in Parkinson disease
This study is looking at how freezing of gait happens in people with advanced Parkinson's disease by monitoring brain activity while they walk in virtual reality, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve their movement.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California Los Angeles NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Los Angeles, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11022800 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the mechanisms behind freezing of gait (FOG), a debilitating symptom in advanced Parkinson's disease. By utilizing a combination of invasive recordings from the brain and immersive virtual reality, the study aims to identify specific neural activity patterns that contribute to FOG. Patients will participate in walking tasks while their brain activity is monitored, helping researchers understand how different brain regions interact during these episodes. The goal is to develop new biomarkers that could lead to improved treatment options for those affected by FOG.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with advanced Parkinson's disease who experience episodes of freezing of gait.
Not a fit: Patients with early-stage Parkinson's disease or those without freezing of gait symptoms may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better-targeted therapies for patients suffering from freezing of gait, improving their mobility and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using brain recordings and virtual reality to study movement disorders, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
Los Angeles, United States
- University of California Los Angeles — Los Angeles, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Cross, Kathryn Amy — University of California Los Angeles
- Study coordinator: Cross, Kathryn Amy
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.