Improving assessments for cervical dystonia treatment outcomes
Official title: Synergistic clinical outcome assessments for cervical dystonia
Funded at University of California, San Diego · NIH-10857162 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is working to create better ways to measure how cervical dystonia affects people, so that doctors can improve treatments and help you feel better both physically and emotionally.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Diego NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (La Jolla, United States) |
| Project start | July 1, 2023 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $192,251 |
| NIH project number | 5R21TR004422-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10857162 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cervical dystonia who are currently receiving or considering botulinum toxin treatments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cervical dystonia who are not receiving treatment or those with other forms of dystonia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on enhancing the evaluation methods for cervical dystonia, a condition that causes involuntary neck movements and can lead to significant discomfort and emotional distress. The study aims to develop more effective clinical outcome assessments that accurately capture both motor and non-motor symptoms associated with the disorder. By addressing the limitations of existing assessment tools, the research seeks to improve treatment strategies and patient satisfaction with therapies like botulinum neurotoxin injections.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective treatment options and improved quality of life for patients with cervical dystonia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in improving clinical assessments for other neurological disorders, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
University of California, San Diego
La Jolla, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Peterson, David a — University of California, San Diego
- Study coordinator: Peterson, David a
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Role of THAP1 in brain cell support cells shaping brain development
Aims to understand how the THAP1 protein in oligodendrocyte lineage cells helps shape the brain’s environment and myelination during development, which may relate to a movement disorder called DYT6 dystonia.
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Leukocyte RNA biomarkers to help diagnose and monitor dystonia
A small study will look for RNA signatures in blood that could help diagnose and track dystonia in people who have the condition.
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How a dystonia-linked protein affects brain support cells and myelin
This project looks at how the THAP1 protein linked to DYT6 dystonia changes the behavior of brain support cells and the surrounding matrix, which could affect myelination in adults with DYT-THAP1.
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Intrathecal baclofen for children with dystonia due to brain injury
A physician-led study at Baylor College of Medicine will help determine how ITB therapy affects daily life, comfort, and mobility for children with dystonia and related condition after brain injury.
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DYT1 Dystonia: Mouse Models to Understand TorsinA and Brain Circuits
A researcher-led project uses mouse models to explore how a genetic change in DYT1 dystonia affects brain circuits and movement.
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Dystonia-specific brain signaling pattern in cerebellum
Aims to identify a characteristic pattern of nerve cell activity in the cerebellum that is linked to dystonia, with studies in mice and potential implications for people with the condition.
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.