Investigating brain activity in movement disorders like Parkinson's disease

Neurophysiological, Behavioral, and Cognitive Networks in Movement Disorders

Not applicable Interventional University of Alabama at Birmingham · NCT04061135

This study is trying to see how brain activity changes during surgery for people with Parkinson's disease and essential tremor to find better ways to treat both movement and non-movement symptoms.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment90 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Alabama at Birmingham Academic / other
Locations1 site (Birmingham, Alabama)
Trial IDNCT04061135 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to explore the brain activity linked to both motor and non-motor symptoms in individuals with movement disorders, particularly focusing on Parkinson's disease and essential tremor. Researchers will analyze changes in brain activity during deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, utilizing recordings from both surface and deep brain structures. The study seeks to understand how DBS may affect cognitive functions and non-motor symptoms, which are often overlooked in current treatment approaches. By examining these aspects, the study hopes to identify potential improvements in treatment strategies for patients suffering from these debilitating conditions.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults diagnosed with Parkinson's disease or essential tremor who are eligible for deep brain stimulation surgery.

Not a fit: Patients who are not surgical candidates due to co-morbid conditions or those unable to provide informed consent may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment options for cognitive and non-motor symptoms in patients with movement disorders.

How similar studies have performed: While deep brain stimulation has been effective for motor symptoms, few studies have specifically investigated its impact on cognitive and non-motor symptoms, making this approach relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Eligible for DBS surgery based on multi-disciplinary consensus review
* Have a diagnosis of Parkinson's disease or Essential Tremor
* A minimum of 18 years of age
* Willingness to participate in the paradigms described in the protocol

Exclusion Criteria:

* Inability to provide full and informed consent
* Are not surgical candidates due to co-morbid conditions or pregnancy
* Have not undergone an adequate trial of conservative medical management
* Have a clinical presentation for which DBS surgery is not indicated
* Are not able to participate in study-related activities

Where this trial is running

Birmingham, Alabama

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Movement DisordersParkinson's disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.