A new treatment approach for laryngeal dystonia using brain-computer interface technology
Adaptive closed-loop brain-computer interface therapeutic intervention in laryngeal dystonia
This study is testing a new way to help people with laryngeal dystonia, a condition that makes it hard to speak, by using a brain-computer interface that gives feedback to help manage their symptoms and improve their speech and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10912668 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel therapeutic intervention for laryngeal dystonia, a condition that causes involuntary spasms affecting speech. The approach involves using a brain-computer interface (BCI) that provides neurofeedback to help patients modulate their symptoms. Through a randomized, double-blind clinical trial, the study aims to assess the effectiveness and feasibility of this BCI technology in improving speech production and overall quality of life for individuals with laryngeal dystonia. Patients will participate in sessions where their brain activity is monitored and used to guide therapeutic exercises.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with laryngeal dystonia who experience difficulties with speech production.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have laryngeal dystonia or those whose condition is not responsive to existing treatments may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to a groundbreaking treatment that significantly improves speech and quality of life for patients with laryngeal dystonia.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of brain-computer interfaces in other neurological conditions has shown promise, this specific application for laryngeal dystonia is relatively novel and untested.
Where this research is happening
Boston, United States
- Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary — Boston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simonyan, Kristina — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Simonyan, Kristina
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.