Understanding immune mechanisms in cervical dystonia
Official title: Immune Mechanisms in Cervical Dystonia
Funded at Emory University · NIH-10985509 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how the immune system might be involved in cervical dystonia, a condition that causes uncontrollable muscle contractions in the neck, by comparing immune cells and brain samples from people with the condition to those without it, to help find better ways to diagnose and treat it.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Emory University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Atlanta, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2024 |
| Project end | August 31, 2029 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $214,785 |
| NIH project number | 1K23NS133497-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-10985509 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with cervical dystonia, particularly those with idiopathic cases.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with dystonia caused by known genetic or structural abnormalities may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the role of immune mechanisms in cervical dystonia, a neurological disorder characterized by involuntary muscle contractions. The study will utilize a biobank and brain specimens to analyze immune cell frequencies and their functions, as well as histopathologic markers in the brain regions associated with dystonia. By comparing these factors in patients with cervical dystonia to healthy controls, the research aims to uncover potential pathogenic mechanisms that could lead to improved diagnostic tools and treatment strategies.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to better understanding and treatment options for patients suffering from cervical dystonia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in understanding immune mechanisms in other neurological disorders, suggesting potential for success in this area as well.
Where this research is happening
-
Emory University
Atlanta, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Scorr, Laura M — Emory University
- Study coordinator: Scorr, Laura M
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.
-
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.