Deep Brain Stimulation for Parkinson's Disease

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

+2 other locations

Overseen byWarren M Grill, PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Duke University

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?The purpose of this study is to measure the effects of non-regular temporal patterns of deep brain stimulation (DBS) on motor symptoms and neural activity in persons with Parkinson's disease (PD), essential tremor (ET), dystonia or multiple sclerosis (MS). These data will guide the design of novel stimulation patterns that may lead to more effective and reliable treatment with DBS. These data will also enable evaluation of current hypotheses on the mechanisms of action of DBS. Improving our understanding of the mechanisms of action of DBS may lead to full development of DBS as a treatment for Parkinson's disease and may lead to future applications of DBS.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for individuals with Parkinson's Disease, Essential Tremor, or Multiple Sclerosis who are neurologically stable and scheduled for Deep Brain Stimulation surgery. Participants must understand the study and consent form. Those unable to perform motor tasks or tolerate medication withdrawal, or with ineffective DBS are excluded.

Inclusion Criteria

I have been diagnosed with Parkinson's, Essential Tremor, or Multiple Sclerosis.

My neurological condition is stable.

Able to understand the study and consent form

+1 more

Exclusion Criteria

Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is not working to improve symptoms.

I cannot perform certain physical tasks required in the study.

I cannot stop taking my Parkinson's or tremor medications.

Participant Groups

The study measures how non-regular deep brain stimulation patterns affect motor symptoms and neural activity in patients with PD, ET, or MS. The goal is to develop more effective DBS treatments by understanding its mechanisms better.

2Treatment groups

Experimental Treatment

Group I: Therapeutic Stimulation PatternsExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

This group will receive temporal patterns of stimulation that are designed to suppress oscillatory neural activity at theta- or beta-frequencies. These patterns are hypothesized to alleviate motor symptoms.

Group II: Symptogenic Stimulation PatternsExperimental Treatment1 Intervention

This group will receive symptogenic patterns of stimulation that are designed to exacerbate oscillatory neural activity at theta- or beta-frequencies. These patterns are hypothesized to exacerbate motor symptoms.