Biomarkers of FOG Response to DBS

Imaging Biomarkers of Freezing of Gait Response to Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)

NIH RePORT

This study aims to identify brain imaging biomarkers that predict an individual’s response to Subthalamic Nucleus DBS (STN-DBS) for treating Freezing of gait (FOG).

FOG affects up to 80% of individuals with PD and is characterized by an inability to initiate or continue walking, often leading to falls and reduced mobility.

While DBS can improve many PD symptoms, its effectiveness in treating FOG varies among patients. By understanding how brain connectivity, structure, and activity influence DBS response, we hope to develop personalized treatment strategies to optimize DBS therapy for those struggling with FOG.

What is Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS)?

DBS is an FDA-approved neurosurgical procedure for Parkinson’s disease. It involves implanting small electrodes in specific areas of the brain, which are connected to a pacemaker-like device implanted in the chest. This device sends electrical impulses to regulate abnormal brain activity and help manage symptoms like tremor.

What Does Participating in the Study Involve?

This is a study for patients that are undergoing DBS, but DBS itself is not part of the study. Patients will undergo all DBS procedures according to clinical protocols and those who enroll in the study will have a few additional assessments including a series of evaluations and imaging sessions before and after DBS surgery.

• Pre-Surgery Assessments:
  • A series of neurological tests, gait assessments, cognitive function evaluations, and MRI scans
• Post-Surgery Follow-Ups:
  • Repeat gait, neurological and cognitive assessments after surgery.
  • MRI scan to observe how DBS affects brain activity and connectivity.

Who can join the study?

Patients who have Parkinson’s disease and freezing of gait and have been selected to undergo deep brain stimulation are potential candidates for the study.

Risks and benefits of the study:

This study is not expected to provide direct benefits to individual participants, but it will contribute to important advancements in Parkinson’s research. By identifying biomarkers that predict response to DBS, this research may improve treatment strategies for individuals experiencing freezing of gait. The findings may also lead to the development of more effective and personalized approaches to DBS therapy, optimizing outcomes for future patients.

Possible risks include emotional distress related to being in the MRI scanner. For participants who have undergone deep brain stimulation (DBS) surgery, there are additional considerations for post-surgical MRI scans. We follow strict safety protocols, to avoid any complications. Some study procedures involve gait assessments that are designed to induce freezing of gait which carries a risk for falls. While every precaution will be taken to ensure participant safety, there is a small risk of falls.

This study is sponsored by the National Institutes of Health (NIH), which funds all study-related activities. All study procedures will be conducted on the Medical University of South Carolina (MUSC) campus in downtown Charleston.