Study of Deep Brain Stimulation Effects on Memory and Cognition in Parkinsons Disease Patients Aged 50 to 70

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the use of deep brain stimulation DBS targeting the substantia nigra to regulate cognitive dysfunction, specifically memory impairment, in patients with Parkinsons disease PD. Cognitive decline, especially in episodic memory, is common and progresses rapidly in PD, significantly affecting patients quality of life. This study aims to understand the electrophysiological mechanisms behind this treatment and evaluate its safety and effect on memory function. The study involves 60 patients aged 50 to 70 with typical PD undergoing bilateral subthalamic nucleus DBS surgery using a 3.0T magnetic resonance compatible dual-channel DBS device. During surgery and one month post-operation, electrical stimulation at various frequencies will be administered to the substantia nigra. Memory performance and brain activity will be assessed under different stimulation conditions using a specialized episodic memory test and functional MRI. The electrical stimulation parameters and brain responses will be carefully monitored. Participants will undergo cognitive and clinical evaluations before surgery and one month after, including various neuropsychological tests and brain imaging scans. During surgery, memory tasks will be performed while microelectrode stimulation and electrophysiological recordings occur. Follow-up includes memory tests with DBS turned on and off, monitoring of vital signs, and safety assessments. Data collected will analyze changes in memory accuracy, brain connectivity, and electrophysiological signals to evaluate the impact and safety of substantia nigra DBS on cognitive function in PD.

Mechanism and Application of DBS in the Treatment of PD