Imaging Biomarkers of FOG Response to DBS

Overview

For this study, the investigators are recruiting 54 individuals with Parkinson's Disease and Freezing of Gait (FOG) who are planning to undergo Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). The objective of this study is to better understand the FOG response to DBS. Prior to DBS, participants will undergo an MRI scan, behavioral assessment related to walking, a cognitive evaluation, and assessment of other Parkinson's disease symptoms. Following DBS, participants will repeat these assessments at multiple timepoints over the period of one year. Overall, participants will complete a total of 7 visits over a period of approximately 1 year.

The long-term goal of this research is to develop an individualized approach for the treatment of Freezing of Gait (FOG) with Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS). In pursuit of this goal, the investigators have preliminary findings which show that: 1. Effective subthalamic nucleus DBS (STN-DBS) activates the globus pallidus interna (GPi) and decreases cortical activation in Parkinson's Disease (PD); 2. Structural connectivity to the GPi, supplemental motor area (SMA), and primary motor cortex (M1) is associated with DBS response in FOG; and 3. Decreased microstructural integrity of the GPi is associated with decreased DOPA response in FOG. The investigators propose a conceptual framework whereby engaging a specific FOG response network depends on the structural integrity of the network, as well as lead placement and stimulation parameters. The investigators propose to recruit 54 individuals with FOG who are identified as appropriate STN-DBS candidates to undergo a prospective longitudinal imaging and behavioral study of FOG response to STN-DBS. Baseline behavioral assessments will characterize FOG behavior, severity, subtype, as well as the cognitive profile, non-FOG motor severity, and other demographics of the enrolled participants that may contribute to DBS response. Baseline imaging will utilize advanced diffusion MRI metrics to determine which brain areas are structurally connected to the stimulation target and their structural integrity. Post-operative assessments will include behavioral measures of FOG response and imaging measures of neural response to stimulation. Pre- and post-operative data will be used to evaluate the association between structural integrity, connectivity, and behavioral response.