Understanding Laryngeal Dystonia Through Brain Imaging and Genetics
Imaging genetics of laryngeal dystonia
This research looks for unique brain patterns and genetic clues to help doctors better understand and diagnose laryngeal dystonia, a condition affecting speech.
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-11140438 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
Laryngeal dystonia, also known as spasmodic dysphonia, causes involuntary spasms in the voice box muscles, making speech difficult. Currently, it's hard to diagnose accurately and early because we lack clear biological signs. This project uses advanced brain imaging and genetic information, combined with machine learning, to find specific brain patterns and genetic factors linked to different types of laryngeal dystonia. The goal is to develop better ways to tell different forms of the condition apart, predict who might develop it early, and confirm the genes involved. This could lead to more accurate and timely diagnoses, improving quality of life for those affected.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Individuals with laryngeal dystonia, those at risk for the condition, or those experiencing related voice disorders like tremor or muscle tension dysphonia might be ideal candidates for future studies stemming from this research.
Not a fit: Patients whose condition is not related to laryngeal dystonia or similar voice disorders would likely not directly benefit from this specific research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to more accurate and earlier diagnosis of laryngeal dystonia, allowing for more timely and effective treatment.
How similar studies have performed: This research uses an innovative, cross-disciplinary approach, building on preliminary data, to address a challenging diagnostic problem.
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.