Understanding vocal communication issues in Parkinson's disease using a rat model

Pathways, mechanisms, and treatments of vocal communication deficits in a Parkinson rat model

['FUNDING_R01'] · UNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON · NIH-10870072

This study is looking at how voice problems happen in people with Parkinson's disease by using rats to see what changes in their brains and bodies affect how they communicate, with the hope of finding new ways to help improve speaking for those with the condition.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorUNIVERSITY OF WISCONSIN-MADISON (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MADISON, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10870072 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how vocal communication deficits develop in individuals with Parkinson's disease by using a rat model that mimics the disease's progression. The study focuses on understanding the biological and functional changes in vocalization pathways, particularly how these changes differ between male and female rats. By examining the neuroanatomical and biochemical aspects of vocalization, the research aims to identify potential targets for improving vocal communication in patients with Parkinson's disease. The findings could lead to new therapeutic strategies to address these communication challenges.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who experience vocal communication difficulties.

Not a fit: Patients without Parkinson's disease or those who do not exhibit vocal communication deficits may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved treatments for vocal communication deficits in patients with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: While there has been research on communication deficits in Parkinson's disease, this specific approach using a rat model to explore vocal pathways is relatively novel.

Where this research is happening

MADISON, 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.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.