Research Grants

Parkinson’s Queensland’s Inc. research grants are funded through the generosity of individual and corporate donors and bequests.

The primary aim of the Parkinson’s Queensland Inc. Seeding Grant Scheme is to support individual researchers and research teams to conduct high quality research into Parkinson’s disease. This includes both basic and applied science research.  In 2011 PQI awarded funding to qualified researchers for innovative research projects related to Parkinson’s disease.  In total, four grants were granted; 1 PhD Grants and 3 Research Seeding Grants.

Cognitive difficulties can have a significant impact on people with Parkinson’s disease (PD).   Anthony Angwin

This research aims to increase understanding of cognitive difficulties in people with PD who have mild cognitive impairment (MCI) compared to people with PD who do not have MCI. We will use brain imaging techniques and measures of brain activity while people perform computerized cognitive tasks to identify the brain mechanisms associated with cognitive difficulty and how it is influenced by MCI. The data obtained will be important for increasing current understanding of the nature of cognitive difficulties in PD, and may lead to the development of improved predictors of cognitive decline and improved management of cognitive difficulties.

Treatment of dysarthria in Parkinson’s disease using repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation. Prof Bruce Murdoch

The proposed project will utilise an exciting new technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to restore articulatory function and speech intelligibility in a group of individuals diagnosed with PD. It is hypothesised that the use of non-invasive repetitive TMS applied to the tongue region of the cerebral cortex will restore cortical excitability in this region leading to improvements in articulatory function and speech intelligibility. The proposed research project has the potential to revolutionise the treatment of speech impairment associated with PD leading to improved communication abilities and consequent improvement in the quality of life of individuals with PD.

Transcranial direct current stimulation is a safe, painless and cutting-edge form of non-invasive brain stimulation. This new technique is being trialled in a number of neurological conditions and demonstrates early promise as an adjunct therapy to improve function. Here we aim to investigate the effect of transcranial direct current stimulation coupled with gait training on gait disturbances, bradykinesia, learning and function in individuals with Parkinson’s disease.

Malnutrition in Parkinson’s disease and an individualised approach to its management.   Jamie Sheard

Unintentional weight loss and undernutrition (malnutrition) has been identified as an issue in people with Parkinson’s disease. However, the extent of this problem is not yet understood. Therefore, this project aims to determine the percentage of people with Parkinson’s disease who are still living in their homes who are malnourished. In addition, the risk factors for undernutrition in people with Parkinson’s disease will also be examined. For those who were identified as being malnourished, the project will aim to assist with improving their nutrition and at the same time evaluate the effectiveness of the approach used.

Functional neuroimaging of prefrontal cortex activation using near-infrared spectroscopy: establishing Dovel biomarkers of cognitive function and fal ls risk in Parkinson’s.  Graham Kerr

The proposed project will utilise functional near-infrared imaging to determine how prefrontal cortex activation is affected in Parkinson’s patients during the performance of cognitive tests while seated, standing and walking. Differences in prefrontal cortex act ivation, cognitive performance, balance and gait will be determined between Parkinson’s patients and control participants and between fallers and non-fallers.

Outcomes of this research will determine the relationship between prefrontal cortex activation, cognitive dysfunction, posture and gait instability, and falls risk.