We have multiple ongoing clinical trials and research projects spanning all aspects of Parkinson’s disease. Starting with Robert Rodnitzky, MD, the founder of our division, we have been a member of the Parkinson Study Group (PSG) and the Huntington Study Group (HSG) since their inception.

Our Division is also a member of the NeuroNEXT through the institution, Dystonia Coalition, and the research network of Parkinson’s Foundation. We have participated in key multicenter observational studies and clinical trials funded by the NIH, NeuroNEXT, Michael J. Fox Foundation, PCORI, and the industry. Our projects benefit from the extensive research infrastructure at the University of Iowa, including the Institute for Clinical and Translational Science, funded by a NIH CTSA program grant for several decades.

The Narayanan lab studies how Parkinson’s disease affects how brain circuits function and is funded by several NIH grants and philanthropy. This knowledge could lead to new targeted therapies for challenging aspects of Parkinson’s disease such as dementia and cognitive dysfunction. Dr. Narayanan’s lab also studies new exciting treatments that can slow the progression of Parkinson’s disease or prevent its onset. They have multiple ongoing clinical trials and research projects spanning all aspects of Parkinson’s disease.

The Uc lab has been studying cognition, driving, diagnostic biomarkers, and the role of exercise in Parkinson’s disease with funding from the Department of Veterans Affairs, Department of Defense, NIH, and MJFF with extensive collaboration across the campus, including the National Advanced Driving Simulator (NADS).

Jeremy D. Greenlee, MD, our excellent DBS neurosurgeon, is a recent recipient of a Presidential Early Career Award for Scientists and Engineers (PECASE) and studies speech generation and effects of DBS with funding from the NIH.