Understanding the brain mechanisms behind essential tremor treatment
The Motor Network in Essential Tremor: Mechanisms of Therapy
University of Florida · NCT02712515
This study looks at how deep brain stimulation affects brain signals in people with essential tremor to better understand the condition and its treatment.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Florida (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Gainesville, Florida) |
| Trial ID | NCT02712515 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study aims to enhance the understanding of essential tremor (ET) by analyzing brain signals from patients undergoing deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery. Researchers will collect neural recordings from implanted electrodes during the procedure, alongside additional non-invasive monitoring. The goal is to investigate the origins of tremor within the human motor network and how DBS modulates this network to alleviate symptoms. This study will involve both essential tremor patients and a control group of Parkinson's disease patients to provide comparative insights.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are neurosurgical patients diagnosed with essential tremor or Parkinson's disease.
Not a fit: Patients who are not surgical candidates will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapeutic strategies for managing essential tremor and enhancing the quality of life for affected patients.
How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on deep brain stimulation for tremor, this specific approach focusing on brain mechanisms through direct recordings is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Neurosurgical patient populations with essential tremor (main cohort) and Parkinson's disease (control cohort) Exclusion Criteria: * Non surgical candidates
Where this trial is running
Gainesville, Florida
- University of Florida — Gainesville, Florida, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Aysegul Gunduz, PhD — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Aysegul Gunduz, PhD
- Email: agunduz@ufl.edu
- Phone: 3522736877
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Essential Tremor, Parkinson's Disease