Investigating how brain stimulation affects voice function in laryngeal dystonia
Official title: The effects of neural modulation on phonatory function in laryngeal dystonia
Funded at Mgh Institute of Health Professions · NIH-11015800 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how a special brain technique can help people with laryngeal dystonia, a condition that makes it hard to speak due to muscle spasms, by improving their voice production and finding better treatments.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mgh Institute of Health Professions NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charlestown, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | February 15, 2021 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $195,573 |
| NIH project number | 5K24DC018603-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11015800 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with adductor laryngeal dystonia who experience voice disruptions due to involuntary muscle spasms.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with other types of voice disorders not related to laryngeal dystonia may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding how neural modulation can improve voice production in patients with laryngeal dystonia, a condition that causes involuntary spasms affecting speech. The project aims to explore the brain's role in this disorder by using a technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to assess brain activity related to voice control. By identifying abnormal brain patterns and testing new interventions, the research seeks to develop better treatment options for individuals suffering from this debilitating condition.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved therapies that enhance voice function and quality of life for patients with laryngeal dystonia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results using similar brain stimulation techniques for other neurological disorders, indicating potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Mgh Institute of Health Professions
Charlestown, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kimberley, Teresa Jacobson — Mgh Institute of Health Professions
- Study coordinator: Kimberley, Teresa Jacobson
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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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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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.