NIH-funded research NIH-funded research

Using brain stimulation to improve balance in patients with progressive supranuclear palsy

Official title: Cerebellar TMS for postural instability in progressive supranuclear palsy

Funded at Oregon Health & Science University · NIH-11074107 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is looking at a safe and painless way to use brain stimulation to help people with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) improve their balance and reduce the risk of falling, so they can stay active and independent for longer.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionOregon Health & Science University
NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Portland, United States)
Project startMay 1, 2022
Project endApril 30, 2027
Funding year2025
Award (this year)$188,568
NIH project number5K23NS121402-04
Project IDNIH-11074107 on NIH RePORTER

Who could benefit from this research

Could help

Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with progressive supranuclear palsy who experience significant balance issues.

Less likely to help

Patients with other forms of parkinsonism or those who do not have balance impairments may not benefit from this research.

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of non-invasive repetitive cerebellar transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to enhance balance and reduce postural instability in individuals with progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP). The study aims to understand how stimulating the cerebellum can improve motor control and decrease the risk of falls, which are common in PSP. By focusing on early interventions, the research seeks to develop effective therapies that can help patients maintain mobility and independence. Participants will undergo rTMS sessions while their balance and postural control are monitored to assess the treatment's effectiveness.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve balance and reduce fall risk for patients with progressive supranuclear palsy.

How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using brain stimulation techniques for improving motor control in various neurological conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in PSP.

Where this research is happening

  • Oregon Health & Science University
    Portland, United States
    Active

Researchers

  • Principal investigator: Dale, Marian Livingston — Oregon Health & Science University
  • Study coordinator: Dale, Marian Livingston

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.