NCT04715984 · Vanderbilt University Medical Center
Corticostriatal Contributions to Parkinson's Disease Cognitive Impairment
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to learn more about the brain activity underlying Parkinson's disease cognitive impairment. The investigators will utilize neural recordings from corticostriatal structures performed during deep brain stimulation surgery to measure neural activity underlying nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to learn more about the brain activity underlying Parkinson's disease cognitive impairment. The investigators will utilize neural recordings from corticostriatal structures performed during deep brain stimulation surgery to measure neural activity underlying nonmotor symptoms of Parkinson's disease.
Interventions
OTHER
Neurophysiology recordings
Neurophysiology recordings will be performed during deep brain stimulation surgery and their relationship to performance on a gambling task evaluated
OTHER
Neural stimulation
Neural stimulation will be delivered during a gambling task and its impact on task performance quantified
Primary outcome measures
Changes in caudate DLPFC beta coherence
Time frame: Baseline to end of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), approximately 3-4 hours
Caudate DLPFC coherence will be computed at rest and during the gambling task and correlated with cognitive metrics
Changes in gambling task performance with neural stimulation
Time frame: Baseline to end of Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS), approximately 3-4 hours
The gambling task will involve seeing a series of cards presented on the screen and pressing a button to respond with a bet. Gambling task performance will be compared between stimulated and non stimulated blocks and between stimulation targets
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Scheduled to undergo deep brain stimulation surgery under local anesthesia at Vanderbilt University Medical Center
- Planned clinical electrode trajectory that contacts caudate
- Age greater than or equal to 40
- Diagnosis of Parkinson's disease
- Able to participate in intraoperative testing
- English speaking
Exclusion criteria
- Age less than 40
- Not able to participate in intraoperative testing (for example unable to comprehend instructions or follow directions)
- Movement disorder other than Parkinson's disease
Where
- Nashville, Tennessee
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jun 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations