AI brain-scan test to diagnose isolated dystonia
Official title: Clinical Validation of DystoniaNet Deep Learning Platform for Diagnosis of Isolated Dystonia
Funded at Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · NIH-11326218 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests an AI tool that reads brain scans to help doctors diagnose people with isolated dystonia more quickly and accurately.
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 start | June 1, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2028 |
| Funding year | 2026 |
| Award (this year) | $674,349 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS124228-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11326218 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates are people with suspected isolated dystonia or unclear movement disorders who can provide past or new brain MRI scans and clinical history.
✕Less likely to help
People without isolated dystonia, those with secondary dystonia from known causes, or individuals who cannot undergo brain MRI may not benefit from this project.
What this research studies
From a patient's point of view, researchers are using a deep learning program called DystoniaNet that looks for imaging signs of isolated dystonia. They will check how well the tool works by reviewing past brain scans and by enrolling new patients who can provide MRI scans and clinical information. The team aims to compare the AI results to standard clinical diagnoses to see if the tool identifies dystonia sooner or more reliably. If successful, the software could be used alongside doctor exams to reduce diagnostic delays and disagreements between clinicians.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could lead to faster and more accurate diagnosis of isolated dystonia so patients get appropriate treatment sooner.
How similar studies have gone: The research team reports promising preliminary data with DystoniaNet, but this is among the first large clinical validation efforts for an AI imaging biomarker in dystonia.
Where this research is happening
-
Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
Boston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Simonyan, Kristina — Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary
- Study coordinator: Simonyan, Kristina
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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.