Title: Mathematical Modeling & Examination into Existing and Emerging Parkinson's Disease Treatments: Levodopa and Ketamine
Department: Neuroscience
Description: This project will investigate and create a mathematical model of two Parkinson's treatments: levodopa (L-Dopa) and ketamine. L-Dopa has been prescribed as Parkinson's treatment starting in the 1960s and is the primary treatment for motor disorder symptoms. While L-Dopa is often used as the primary pharmaceutical for Parkinson's Disease, it comes with many drawbacks. Ketamine is an emerging Parkinson's treatment, which is currently being tested to treat involuntary motor movements and mood fluctuations caused by long-term L-Dopa treatment. Using current neuroscience literature, a mathematical model will be created depicting the neurological pathways of the medications in the brain. Using a biochemical system simulator, the model will be used to investigate Parkinson's Disease and examine the effects of these medications on a diseased brain system.
Hometown: Ashburn, Virginia
Advisor: Randolph Coleman
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